Birds of the Pacific slope of Los Angeles County : a list with brief notes

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PASADENA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES.
PUBLICATION NO. II.

BIRDS

OF THE PACIFIC SLOPE OF

Los Angeles County.

BY

JOSEPH GRINNELL.

PRESS OF G. A. SWERDFIGER
PASADENA, CALIFORNIA.
MARCH, 1898.

Cornell University

Library

The original of this book is in
the Cornell University Library.

There are no known copyright restrictions in
the United States on the use of the text.

http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924000157234

PASADENA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES.
PUBLICA1TION NO. I.

IBIRDS

OF THE PACIFIC SLOPE OF

Los Angeles County.

A LIST WITH BRIEF NOTES.

BY

JOSEPH GRINNELL, A. B.,

Assistant Instructor in Biology, Throop Polytechnic Institute.

Press OF G. A. SWERDFIGER

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA.
MARCH, 1898.

Pasadena Academy of Sciences,

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA.

OFFICERS:
PROF. CHARLES F. HOLDER, ‘ ’ . : President.
PROF. ERNEST B. HOAG, : ; F First Vice-President.
HON. DELOS ARNOLD, ; : , Second Vice-President.
FRANK S. DAGGETT, : ; 5 f : Secretary.
OLIVER M. GALE. : ; ; ' : j Treasurer.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:

Pror. Ernest B. Hoac, Frank S. Daccert, Dr. Gro. S. Hutt,
JosEPH GRINNELL, Major H. N. Rust.

REGULAR MEETINGS:

Assembly Hall, Throop Polytechnic Institute, first and third Friday
evenings of each month.

INTRODUCTION.

The present list is intended to include all hirds which have been so far
proven to occur within the limits of the region under consideration. Besides
their common and scientific names, brief notes are added on their comparative
abundance and distribution; definite dates of arrival and departure, in the cases
of migratory birds; the extent of the breeding season, giving exact dates and
citing extreme instances.

No species or subspecies has been entered except upon the best of evidence.
Thus many, especially water birds, which I am certain do occur, have been ex-
cluded because specimens have not been actually secured and properly identified.
All notes have undergone careful consideration and if the least doubt has existed
as to their authenticity, they have been stricken out. Thus certain recently re-
corded breeding notes have not been admitted on account of a doubt as to the
identity of the species in question, although I could not prove it to thave been
wrong.

All species and subspecies, concerning the relationship of which there was
any uncertainty, have been carefully looked up or submitted to the best authori-
ties for verification. In case of slight races, comparative series have been exam-
ined, and their status as accurately as possible determined.

The present list, with the accompanying notes, is the result mainly of ob-
servations made by members of the Southern Division of the Cooper Ornitholog-
ical Club, and cover little more than the past six or eight years, a very short time
as compared with the years of careful observation carried on in some of the East-
ern states. Yet the results of our work are so favorable that it is hoped we are
not judged conceited or hasty in publishing at least this annotated list.

The region dealt with may seem to be rather idl-defined, but I think that, as
restricted, it comprises a neat little geographical area, quite distinct from the sur-
rounding country. It is very seldom that faunal areas coincide with political di-
visions, and frequently a state or county may lie in parts of two or more entirely
different regions, as in the case of Los Angeles County, which is about half and
half in the desert and in the Pacific district.

As indicated by the title of this paper, the region here dealt with is the por-
tion of Los Angeles County lying southwest of the divide between the desert and
the Pacific slopes. The lower part of Orange County lying west of the Santa Ana
mountains is also included, as it is topographically identical with the contiguous
portion of Los Angeles County.

The region under consideration presents considerable variation as regards to-
pographic characters, and to this fact may be attributed the large number of
hirds found in so limited an area. It is approximately sixty miles square in extrem€
dimensions. Beginning at the seacoast, there is a gradual rise to the base of the
main mountain ranges when there is an abrupt elevation to the divide, which va-
ries from 4000 to gooo0 feet in altitude. Along the coast there are several bayous
with extensive salt marshes. A litle further inland, in the artesian well districts

4 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication II.

and along the streams, there are numerous fresh water ponds and swamps. The
plains which comprise the major part of this region, extend almost unbrokenly,
gently sloping up to the base of the mountains. However, on the eastern and
western margins are ranges of hills or low mountains, furrowed by ravines and
canyons. The dry, elevated slopes lying along the base of the Sierra Madre
range, at an elevation of 600 to 1200 feet, I have termed the mesa region in dis-
tinction from the lower plains lying toward the coast. The high mesas are
crossed by broad sandy washes and arroyos, and thus more nearly resemble the
desert on the opposite side of the mountains. ‘The brush-covered foot-hills rise in
successively higher spurs and ridges, culminating in the lofty mountain ranges
which form the desert divide. The higher mountains are clothed with heavy con-
iferous forests, while the canyons are lined with alders and sycamores. Exten-
sive oak forests cover portions of the mesas and lowlands, especially along the
western border of the county.

The water birds known to occur around the neighboring islands of Santa Cat-
alina and Santa Barbara, and in the intermediate Santa Barbara Channel, are of
course considered as belonging to the Los Angeles County fauna, but the land
birds of the mainland only are included. The water birds of this county have
been given but very little attention. Mr. A. M. Shields, to whom I am greatly
indebted for notes on the major part of the game birds, has in fact done almost
the only work in that line. The sea birds can be but poorly represented, when
we consider the number which should and undoubtedly do occur along our coast
and in the adjacent ocean channel. The land birds, however, I believe to be very
well covered, at least those of regular occurrence, and besides these it will be
noted that there are several rather unexpected stragglers.

It is hoped that this initiatory effort at cataloguing our native birds will be a
basis for further and more extended observations in this comparatively little
known region.

I wish to extend my thanks especially to Messrs. Frank S. Daggett, Horace
A. Gaylord and G. F. Morcom for aid and suggestions and for critically reading
the manuscript. I am also indebted to the following observers for more or less
extended local lists or notes: Ralph Arnold, Walter E. Bryant, Lee Chambers,
A. J. Cook, Evan Davis, Chas. E. Groesbeck, Frank J. Illingworth, Frank B. Jew-
ett, Will B. Judson, Harry J. Leland, A. I. McCormick, Virgil W. Owen, Earl D.
Parker, Howard Robertson, Edward Simmons, Frank Stephens, Harry S. Swarth
and M. L. Wicks, Jr.

For identification of specimens I owe my sincerest thanks to Prof. Robert
Ridgway and Mr. William Palmer of the National Museum, and to Messrs. A. W.
Anthony and William Brewster.

Finally, to the Pasadena Academy of Sciences, I express my gratitude for en-
abling me to publish this paper.

Pasadena, California, JOSEPH GRINNELL.

February 21, 1898.

Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County.

1—r.* 4chmophorus occidentalis (Lawt.).

Western Grebe.

Tolerably common winter visitant along the coast, and occasional
in the interior on the larger ponds. A disabled individual of this spe-
cies was found by Arthur Hewitt on one of the streets of Pasadena,
Feb. 21, ’95.

2—4. Colymbus nigricollis californicus (Heerw. ).

American Eared Grebe.

Occasional in summer on the larger fresh water ponds, and in
winter along the coast. I found it numerous at Catalina Island in the
last week of December, ‘97. It breeds at Elizabeth Lake in the north-
ern part of the county, and abundantly at Bear Valley Lake in the San
Bernardino Mountains. W.H. Wakeley has an immature male of this
species in perfect albino plumage, shot near San Pedro, Sept. 30, 86.
3—6. Podilymbus podiceps (Linn.).

Pied-billed Grebe.

Common resident on ponds and lagoons throughout the lowlands.

It appears in the fall in localities where it is not seen at other times; V.

W. Owen has tak -n specimens at that season on a reservor at Gar-
vanza. Breeds in May.

4—7, Urvinator imber (Gunn.).
Loon.

Tolerably common along the coast as well as inland on fresh wa-
ter ponds in midwinter. For several years, before the reservoirs in
North Pasadena were cemented, Loons were of regular occurrence,
subsisting on the fish which were then abundant in the reservoirs.
One bird in particular became very tame and was regularly fed by the
‘‘zanquero’’ until it disappeared in the spring.

56—z0. Urvinator pacificus (Lawr.).

Pacific Loon.

Tolerably common midwinter visitant along the coast. A. M.
Shields shot an adult male specimen at Nigger Slough in January, ’93.
I found it common at Catalina Island in the latter part of December,
97, and took two specimens.
6—r1r. Urinator lumme (Gunn.).

Red-throated Loon.

Tolerably common winter visitant along the coast. F. S. Daggett
took a specimen at San Pedro, Jan. 4, ’96, and several others were
seen. I have noted it in the spring as late as the first week in April.

* Numbers and nomeclature are according to the A. O. U. Check-list.

6 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication II.

7—12. Lunda cirrhata Pall.
Tufted Puffin.

I observed a few in May, ’97, at Santa Barbara Island, where
they were probably nesting.

8—z5. Cerorhinca monocerata (Pall.).

Rhinoceros Guklet.

Apparently a common winter visitant. I found it comparatively
numerous at Catalina Island in the last week of December, ’97, and
secured ten specimens in one day’s collecting. F. Stephens took a
specimen in the same locality in the latter part of March, ’93. Evan
Davis has a specimen taken near Newport Bay in winter.

9—z76. Ptychorampus aleuticus (Pall.).

Cassin’s Auklet.

Abundant resident around the Islands. I found it numerous
at Catalina Island in December, ’97, and breeding in large numbers on
Santa Barbara Island in May, ’97. On May 16, badly incubated eggs
and young of all sizes were secured, so that the breeding season prob-
ably begins in March.

10—25. Brachyramphus hypoleucus Xantus.
Xantus’s Murrelet.
Seen frequently out in the Channel at all seasons. I took a spec-
imen near Santa Barbara Island, May 13, ’97.
11—29. Cepphus columba Pall.
Pigeon Guillemot.
Common resident about the Islands. I saw several at Catalina
Island in December, ’97, and found it breeding numerously at Santa

Barbara Island in May, ’97. Fresh sets of two eggs each were taken
on May 15.

12—-37. Stercorarius parasiticus (Linn.).
Parasitic Jaeger.
A female of this species was taken at Santa Monica, Sept. 29, ’95,

by H. S. Swarth. Jaegers are not infrequently seen along the coast in
winter, and probably include other species besides this.

18—44. Larus glaucescens Naum.

Glaucous-winged Gull.
W. B. Judson has an immature specimen taken near Redondo in
winter. I identified this species at Catalina Island in December, ’97.
It undoubtedly occurs as a regular winter visitant.

l4—yo. Larus occidentalis Aud.

Western Gull.

Abundant throughout the year along the coast. Especially nu-
merous in San Pedro Harbor, where they are protected by law as be-
ing useful scavengers. Breeds in large numbers on Santa Barbara Is-
land. In May ’97, full sets of three fresh eggs were found by the 18th.
Nests also on an outlying rock near the Isthmus at Catalina.

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 7

15—5ra. Larus argentatus smithsonianus Coues.

American Herring Gull.
This species is frequent in winter along the coast. I found it in
small numbers in December, ’97, at Catalina Island, and a specimen
was obtained.

16—53. Larus californicus Lawr.

California Gull.

Common winter visitant along the coast. This species also fre-
quents the fresh water marshes back from the coast, feeding on dead
ducks at the sporting grounds, and I have even seen it along the river
bottom near Los Angeles.

17—54. Larus delawarensts Ord.
Ring-billed Gull.
Tolerably common along the coast in midwinter. J. F. Illing-

worth has a specimen taken at Long Beach, Dec. 20, ’92, and I have
one taken at the same place, Dec. 4, ’96.

18—57. Larus heermanni Cass.

Heermann’s Gull.

Generally a common winter visitant along the coast. I have seen
it in spring as late as May 11 (97), and in the fall by Sept. 1 (’97).
When the fishermen draw their seines along the beaches, clouds of
gulls are usually attracted and of these, this species generally forms
about one-fourth, while the Western Gull forms about one-half. The
greater part of our winter visitants among the Laridze are in immature
plumage, and consequently in most cases difficult to distinguish at a
distance. I suspect that a systematic slaughter of the swarms of gulls
attracted by the fishermen would result in the addition of several more
species to our list. But this would be a practice that is certainly rep-
rehensible in the extreme, although I understand it has been resorted
to, to a successful degree, by a ‘‘lover of birds’’ near San Francisco.

19—60. Larus philadelphia (Ord).
Bonaparte’s Gull.

Occasional winter visitant along the coast. I have an adult male
taken near Santa monica, Dec. 8, ’89, by E. C. Thurber., I saw a pair
in San Pedro Harbor on May 11, ’97, and a single individual at the
same place, Jan. 30, ’97.

20—65. Sterna maxima Bodd.
Royal Tern.

More or less common throughout the year along the coast. Very
numerous in winter around Catalina Island. I do not know of its
breeding north of Lower California.

21—69. Sterna forstert Nutt.
Forster’s Tern.
Common spring and fall migrant; seen generally about the sloughs
and bays. I secured specimens at San Pedro, Sept. 1,’97. H. A.
Gaylord saw several individuals at Alamitos Beach, Dec. 4, ’96.

8 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication If.

22—74. Sterna antillarum (Less.).
Least Tern.

Abundant in summer, coastwise. Arrives about the middle of
April and leaves for the most part late in August, although Vv. W.
Owen noted a few near Long Beach on Sept. 24 (97). This tern nests
abundantly in suitable places along the sea coast. A strip of sandy
beach separating the surf from a tide marsh seems to be generally se-
lected. Such nesting sites are on Terminal Island and Ballona Beach,
where good-sized colonies are usually found breeding. Sets are most
often of two, occasionally of three. Breeds mainly in June. Evan
Davis has found fresh eggs as early as May 20, and as late as Aug. 12,
at Newport Beach.

23—8r. Diomedea nigripes Aud.
Black-footed Albatross.
Tolerably common out to sea, probably occurring throughout the
year. Follows in the wake of steamships and other large vessels, and
at such times known to the sailors as ‘‘Goonies.”’

24—82. Diomedea albatrus Pall.} 3
Short-tailed Albatross.

Dr. J. G. Cooper informs me that he has taken this species near
Catalina island. I once found a partly decomposed specimen in the
surf at Long Beach. Evan Davis has a fine specimen which was killed
with an oar near Newport Beach.

25—86b. Fulmarius glacialis glupischa Stejn.
Pacific Fulmar.
Irregular visitant out in the Channel. Very numerous in the
vicinity of Catalina Island in the fall of 97. F.S. Daggett founda
specimen dead on the sand at Long Beach, Oct. 11, ’95.

27—93. Puffinus creatopus Coues.
Pink-footed Shearwater.
Occasional out to sea. Seen and positively identified near Catalina
Island on May 12, ’97, by H. A. Gaylord.

27—93. Puffinus opisthomelas Coues.

Black-vented Shearwater.
More or less common at all times out in the Channel. During the
spring and early summer of ’97 they were very abundant off San Pe-
dro. ‘They are said to have formerly bred on Santa Barbara Island.

28—95. Puffinus griseus (Gmel.).
Dark-bodied Shearwater.

Occasionally common out in the Channel. During the spring of
'g7 they were not uncommon off San Pedro, associated with the Black-
vented Shearwaters. Considerable numbers are sometimes found
washed up on the beaches in the fall of the year. W. B. Judson noted
many of these birds, dead or disabled, on the beach at Santa Monica
toward the end of August, ’97.

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 9

29—106. Oceanodroma leucorhoa (Vieill.).

Leach’s Petrel.
I found the remains of one at Long Beach, Sept. 7, ’95. Dr. J. G.
Cooper informs me that he has observed a white-rumped petrel out in
the Channel near Catalina which he considered of this species.

380—z07. Oceanodroma melania (Bonap. ).

Black Petrel.
_ During the spring of ’97, this species was observed on several occa-
sions out in the open Channel. It is probably a more or less common
resident.

d1—z20c. Phalacrocorax dilophus albociliatus Ridgw.

Farallone Cormorant.

Common throughout the year, though less so in summer. Those
which remain about San Pedro Harbor in summer are mostly imma-
ture. This is the only cormorant found further inland than the coast,
it being frequent in winter on the larger ponds and marshes. Breeds
abundantly on Santa Barbara Island in the latter part of May. It also
breeds, according to A. M. Shields, on Gull Rock near the Isthmus at
Catalina Island. Three or four eggs constitute a set.

32— 122. Phalacrocorax penicillatus (Brandt).

Brandt’s Cormorant.

The most abundant cormorant. Very numerous along the coast
and breeding in large numbers on Santa Barbara Island. On this is-
land, May 15, ’97, I found small young as well as eggs in all stages of
incubation. Sets were of two to four. Probably the small size of
some of the sets was due to the thieving propensities of the gulls,
which are always ready to carry off unprotected eggs. This cormo-
rant is the usual one observed about San Pedro, and sometimes hun-
dreds are seen roosting on the breakwater. Large beds of ‘'shags,”’
as the fishermen call either species of cormorant, are frequently met
with just outside the harbor.

88—17236. Phalucrocorax pelagicus resplendens (Aud.).
Baird’s Cormorant.

Tolerably common resideut among the islands. Breeds numer-
ously on Santa Barbara Island in May. Probably occurs in winter
along the mainland coast, but I have not learned that it has as yet
been positively identified there.

34—r25. Pelecanus erythrorhyncos Gmel.
American White Pelican.

Occasionally during the fall and winter good-sized flocks appear
on the fresh water marshes and lagoons near the coast. A. M. Shields
says that during the migrations he has seen V-shaped flocks further
inland flying at a considerable height.

B5—r27. Pelecanns californicus Ridgw.
California Brown Pelican.
Abundant in winter all along our coast, and a few remain through

10 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication LL.

the summer about San Pedro Harbor. It does not breed within our
limits that I know of, though I am told that it does north of us on
Ana Capa Island and south, on Los Coronados.
36—728. Fregata aguila Linn.

Map-o’-War Bird.

Of not infrequent occurrence along our coast in_ winter. W. B.
Judson reports seeing it at Santa Monica, and H. A. Gaylord, at Long
Beach. ‘There isa specimen in a Los Angeles taxidermist’s, which
was taken near Santa Monica. A specimen was shot about August,
92, in North Pasadena (R. H. Lawrence in “Auk,” Vol. X). HS.
Swarth reports seeing three of these birds circling overhead near Los
Angeles, in December, ’97.

37—129. Merganser americanus (Cass. ).
American Merganser.

Probably a not uncommon winter visitant. F. Stephens took a

male at Alamitos Bay, Dec. 15, ’79.

38—r30. Merganser serrator (Linn. ).

Red-breasted Merganser.
Common winter visitant, occurring mostly along the coast. I saw
it at Catalina Island in December, ’97. H.S. Swarth took a specimen
near Los Angeles, Dec. 27, ’94.

89—132. Lophodytes cucullatus (Linn. ).

Hooded Merganser.

A. M. Shields states that this Saw-bill is a common fall and win-
ter visitant, arriving in November and leaving by February. Mostly
found along the coast in the vicinity of the salt marshes. F. Stephens
took an adult male at Alamitos Bay, Dec. 23, ’79.

40—732. Anas boschas Liun.

Mallard.
Abundant resident in the neighborbhood of fresh water marshes,

and along irrigating ditches and streams. A.M. Shields states that
it breeds from the first of April to the last of June.

41—735. Anas strepera Linn.

Gadwall.

Tolerably common resident in the vicinity of fresh water lagoons.

A. M. Shields took a set of eleven eggs, considerably incubated, on
April 16.

42—1737. Anas americana Gmel.

Baldpate.

Abundant winter visitant. A. M. Shields states that after the
first rains, as soon as the new growth of grass appears, this duck ar-
rives in thousands, They generally spend the day, iti common with
many other species of ducks, several miles out at sea, resting on the
water in beds of acres in extent. Here they are safe from the Gunner
during the day, and only after nightfall they go inland, dispersing over
alfalfa and grain fields to feed. This duck remains late in the spring,

March, 1898. — Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. ii

A. M. Shields states as late as May 15, and arrives early in the fall.
Known generally among hunters as ‘‘ widgeon.”’

43—139. Anas carolinensis Gmel.

Green-winged Teal.

Abundant in winter throughout the lowlands. This is the com-

monest duck in the game markets.
44—140. Anas discors Linn.
Blue-winged Teal.

Rare visitant. F.S. Daggett took an adult male near El Monte,
March 12, ‘97. It was on a small pond and no others were seen. W.
B. Judson shot a female near Los Angeles, Oct. 31, ’96.
45—zgr. Anas cyanoptera Vieill.

Cinnamon Teal.

An abundant fresh water duck during spring, summer and fall,
going south in midwinter. Breeds in considerable numbers throughout
the lower country in the vicinity of ponds and lagoons. A set of
twelve fresh eggs was taken by A. M. Shields near Compton, May 7,
*95. Evan Davis took sets of seven and nine fresh eggs each at New-
port Bay, April 20,’97. Breeds mostly in May.

46—z42. Spatula clypeata (Linn.).
Sboveller.

Abundant winter visitant about any body of water.. I have seen
it on ponds near Pasadena as late in the spring as May 3 (’95). Gen-
erally called ‘“‘spoonbill’’ by local hunters.

47—143. Dafila acuta (Linn.).
Pintail.

Abundant in winter, and a few remain through the summer about
lagoons and marshes. A. M. Shields states that he has taken sets of
eggs in May. Commonly called ‘‘sprig’’ by hunters.
48—rg4. Aix sponsa (Linn.).

Wood Duck.

Occasional midwinter visitant. A. M. Shields states that it breeds
in this State further northward, along the San Joaquin river.
49—746. Aythya americana (Tyt.).

Redhead.

Tolerably common in summer. Breeds sparingly in fresh water
marshes,
50—rg7. Aythya vallisneria (Wils.).

' Canvas-back.

Tolerably common winter visitant. Our most highly prized game
bird. A.M. Shields writes me that he believes it to occasionally breed
within the county.
5l—ry9. Aythya affinis (Eyt.).

Lesser Scaup Duck.
A. M. Shields says that this duck is found commonly in fall, win-

12 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication LL.

ter and spring cn the lagoons and bays along the coast, and sometimes
on the deeper bodies of fresh water a few miles inland.

52—r150. Aythya collaris (Donov.).
Ring-necked Duck. :
A. M. Shields states this duck to occur in company with the last,

but only about one-third as numerous. H. S. Swarth has taken it
near Los Angeles.

68—r152. Clangula clangula americana (Bonap. ).
American Golden-eye.
Only one record, that by A. M. Shields of a male shot at Ballona,

Dec. 14,94. H.S. Swarth reports seeing Golden-eyes frequently in
the vicinity of Los Angeles, but he is in doubt as to the species.

54—153. Charitonetta albeola (J.inn. ).

Buffle-head.
Abundant winter visitant, especially on the lagoons along the
coast.
55—163. Oidentia americana Swains.

American Scoter.
A. M. Shields states that he has found this duck in limited num-
bers during the winter months along the coast and on the tide marshes.
Dr. J. G. Cooper took it at Catalina Island, many years ago.

56—165. Oidemia deglandi Bonap.
White-winged Scoter.
A. M. Shields writes that he has found this to be the commonest

Scoter along the coast and on the tide marshes. F. Stephens found it
common at Catalina Island in the latter part of March, ’93.

5i—166. Otdemia perspicillata (Linn.).
Surf Scoter.

Quite numerous at times during the mid-winter months along the
coast. I have noted considerable numbers about San Pedro Harbor in
December and January. In December, ’97, it was very numerous at
Catalina Island.
58—z767. Erismatura jamaicensts (Gmel.).

Ruddy Duck.
Tolerably common resident. A.M. Shields states that it breeds
from late in May until the last of June. Evan Davis took a set of
twelve eggs, considerably incubated, near Orange on May 28th.

59—169. Chen hyperborea (Pall.).

Lesser Snow Goose.

A. M. Shields considers this a common winter visitant in the low-
lands. Immense numbers feed during the winter and spring months
on the Centinela grain fields. This goose, in common with the other
species, does considerable damage to grain and alfalfa crops. They
feed almost entirely at night; during the day they stay out at sea rest-

ing on the water in large beds a few miles off shore along with swarms
of ducks.

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 18

60—s69a. Chen hyperborea nivalis (Forst.).

Greater Snow Goose.

__ Evan Davis writes me that he secured specimens of this race along
with the Lesser Snow Goose in winter near Santa Ana.

61—z7ra, Anser albifrons gambeli (Hartl.).

American White-fronted Goose.

Quite numerous during winter and spring on the fresh water
marsh lands. A. M. Shields states that this is the goose usually dis-
played in the Los Angeles game markets, being most easily secured by
the pot-hunters.

62—r772. Branta canadensis (Linn.).

Canada Goose.

Tolerably common in midwinter in the vicinity of fresh water
marsh lands. I saw good-sized flocks at Bixby, Dec. 26, ’95, when
several specimens were secured. A. M. Shields states that this goose
was formerly much more abundant than it now is.

638—r72a. Branta canadensis hutchinsii (Rich.).

Hutchins’s Goose.
A. M. Shields regards this as nearly as numerous as the Lesser
Snow Goose, and occurring in company with that species.

64—774. Branta nigricans (Lawt.).

Black Brant.

A. M. Shields is the sole authority for adding this species to our
list. He states that the Black Brant is an occasional winter visitant
along the coast. It appears in small flocks after severe storms further
north.

65—778. Dendrocygna fulva (Gmel.).
Fulvous Tree-duck.

A. M. Shields furnishes all the information we have in regard to
this interesting species. He has found it to be a regular visitant in the
spring months from the last of January until the latter part of April or
even later. In the spring of ’96 a flock of about seventy-five remained
in the vicinity of Nigger Slough until the middle of May. They then
abruptly disappeared, probably returning southward where this species
is known to breed, in Northern Mexico.

66—78&r. Olor buccinator (Rich.).
Trumpeter Swan.

A regular winter and spring visitant in small numbers on fresh
water ponds and lakes. A. M. Shilds has taken two fine specimens.

67—187. Plegadis guarauna (Linn.).
White-faced Glossy Ibis.
Of common occurrence in fall, winter and spring. A few remain
through the summer in the Ballona marshes, and A. M. Shields be-
lieves that they breed there.

14 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication IL

68—788. Tantalus loculator Linn.

Wood Ibis.
J. F. Illingworth observed a large flock of this species on the bar-
ley fields in the vicinity of Claremont during June, ’97. On June 20
a specimen was secured and preserved, and a few days later a local
hunter shot another.

69—r90. Botaurus lentiginosus (Montag.).

American Bittern.
Common throughout the winter on any marsh lands. A. M.
Shields has observed these birds in the Alamitos swamps in June, and
believes that they breed, though in very small numbers.

70—rgr. Ardetta exilis (Gmel.).

Least Bittern.

Probably as numerous as its larger relative, the American Bittern,
but on account of its small size, and habit of skulking to one side in
the herbage rather than taking flight at the approach of a person, it is
not commonly seen. Breeds in small numbers on swamp lands. A.
M. Shields has taken several sets in the early part of May.

7l—ro4g. Ardea herodias Linn.

Great Blue Heron.

Common throughout the year, but most numerous in spring and
fall. Usually seen standing singly at the margins of ponds or irrigat-
ing ditches. Occasionally companies of a dozen to twenty or more are
to be seen on the salt marshes along the coast. Breeds sparingly in the
county. L. Chambers reports finding a small colony nesting in a grove
of sycamores north of Santa Monica. ‘here were thirty-five nests
there in ’95, but in ’97 their number had decreased to six. May 13,
95, three considerably incubated sets of four each were taken. A.M.
Shields found a single nest of the Great Blue Heron near Cerritos on
the San Gabriel River, May 5, ’89. ‘The set consisted of five fresh
eggs. Evan Davis has located a small breeding colony near Orange.
He secured a set of four fresh eggs on June 15.

72—196. Ardea egretta Gmel.

American Egret.

A not infrequent winter and spring visitant on the marshlands.
Seldom more than one is seen at a time, though I have noted as
many as eight in sight at once in the salt marshes near San Pedro. A.
M. Shields states that formerly this beautiful bird visited us in great

numbers, and that its present scarcity is probably due to the plume
hunters.

73—197. Ardea candidissima Gmel.
Snowy Heron.
Formerly a common visitant like the American Egret, but now
only seldom seen. W. H. Wakeley, the Pasadena taxidermist, has
plumes and skins of both species taken in the county. He says that in

the early 80’s he received many specimens from hunters and sports-
men, but that of late they are very rarely brought in.

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 15

T4—20r¢. Ardea virescens anthonyi Mearns.
Anthony's Green Heron.

Common spring and fall migrant, appearing singly along streams
and ponds. It is not only found in the lowlands, but I have taken
specimens in the mountain cafions back of Pasadena. Noted in the
vicinity of Pasadena in the fall of ’94, from Aug. 21 to Sept. 22.

7i—202. Nycticorax nycticorax nevius (Bodd.).

Black-crowned Night Heron.

Abundant migrant and common throughout the wincer. Found
along the margins of any body of water or stream, frequently at a con-
siderable elevation in the mountain cafions. Although this bird has
not been found nesting within the limits of the County, it probably
does not go far, as I have shot specimens toward the latter part of April
which contained well-developed eggs.

76—206. Grus mexicana (Mull.).

Sandhill Crane. .
Principally in evidence during the migrations in large V-shaped.
flocks high in the air, flying northward or southward according to the
season, A.M. Shields states that a few stay through the winter and
spring months up to May first, among the Centinela hills and grain-
fields. F.S. Daggett has noted them in grain-fields in winter near
Pasadena.

Ti—a2zo. FRallus obsoletus Ridgw.

California Clapper Rail.

Tolerably con-on resident in the salt marshes along the coast.
Among the lagosus between San Pedro and Long Beach, their loud
cackling notes are frequently heard, especially at high tide, when they
are driven to the higher ground. They probably nest in moderate
abundance, though few eggs have so far been taken. W. B. Judson
took a set of six slightly incubated eggs at Ballona, May 16, ‘94.

78—2r2. Rallus virginianus Linn.
Virginia Rail.
Of not infrequent occurrence in spring and fall. A few have been
noted in summer, So they probably breed.

79—a2rg. Porzana carolina (Linn.).

Sora.

Wherever there are swampy lands overgrown with marsh grass
and tules, the Sora isa more or less common resident. During the
migrations it is somewhat more numerous and appears in locasities
where it is not found at any other season. A. M. Shields writes me
that he has taken many sets, allin May. The nest is built usually on
the ground, and well concealed within a clump of § grass or tules. Sets
are of 7 to 14 eggs.

80—276. Porzana jamaicensis (Gmel.).

Black Rail.

This very small and secretive bird is but rarely noted. Evan

16 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication IT,

Davis took a specimen near Orange, Dec. 12, 96. G. F. Morcom saw
one in the Ballona marsh, May 16, ’95, and thinks it must have had a
nest nearby.

81—2z9. Gallinula galeata (Licht.).

Florida Gallinule.

Common resident on large tule-bordered ponds. | Wherever
there are Coots this species is likely to be found, though its secretive
habits render it far less conspicuous than the Coot. Nests in tule beds
mostly in May. O. W. Howard took a set of nine slightly incubated
eggs near Los Angeles, April 15 (’90); W.B. Judson took a set of
nine considerably incubated eggs, June 19 (’95), near Redondo.
These represent the probable extent of the breeding season.

82—227. Fulica americana Gmel.

American Coot.

Abundant resident on any permanent body of water, especially if
there is a border of tules. During the winter it is more generally dis-
tributed, and even appears along irrigation ditches and on small reser-
voirs. These birds are popularly known as ‘‘ mud-hens,’’ and are
killed by hundreds on the duck preserves, as they are considered a
nuisance by the hunters. Breeds in the latter part of April, and in May.

S3—222. Crymophilus fulicarius (Linu.).
Red Phalarope.
Specimens were taken by Walter Richardson in the fall on a reser-

voir near Pasadena. A. M. Shields states it to be occasionally common
on the sloughs along the coast during the spring months.

S4—223. Phalaropus lobatus (Linn.).
Northern Phalarope.

Abundant migrant. H. S. Swarth took it at Nigger Slough,
Juue 19 (’97), and G. F. Morcom saw several in July at the same
place. F. 5S. Daggett found them in large flocks on the fresh water
ponds at Bixby, Aug. 10 to Aug. 27 (’96). Thus, they occur nearly
through the summer, though none are known to breed.

85—225. Recurvirostra americana Gmel.

American Avocet.

Found in marshy districts in varying numbers throughout the
year. Breeds commonly in the vicinity of the Alamitos swamps and
Nigger Slough. A.M. Shields took a set of four fresh eggs at the
latter place, May 27 (’92), and W. B. Judson took a similar set, June
26 (’95), in the same locality. Evan Davis reports taking eggs near
Santa Ana from May 3 toJuly6. Fullsets are almost invariably of four.

8H—226. Himantopus mexicanus (Mull. ).

Black-necked Stilt.

Common in spring and fall on the margins of ponds and marshes.
Breeds locally in considerable numbers. Evan Davis has taken eggs

at Alkali Lakes near Santa Ana from the first of May until August.
Sets were of three and four eggs each.

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 17

87—230. Gallinago delicata (Ord).
Wilson’s Snipe.
Abundant game bird in fall, winter and spring, on grassy swamps
and wet pastures.

88—232. Macrorhamphus scolopaceus (Say).

Long-billed Dowitcher.
Common winter visitant. Perhaps most often taken in early spring,

89—2g2. Tringa minutilla Vieill.
Least Sandpiper.

A common winter visitant. Generally seen on margins of ponds
or sloughs in small scattering companies.

90—2¢3a. Tringa alpina pacifica (Coues).
Red-backed Sandpiper.

Common migrant and scarcely less numerous through the winter-
Usually observed in good-sized flocks on the sea beach at the mouth of
a slough or ‘‘river.”’ W. H. Wakeley has specimens in the bright
summer plumage, taken at a pond near Pasadena early in May.
91—2g7. Eveunetes occidentalis Lawr.

Western Sandpiper.

Appears along the coast in immense flocks during September and
April. G. F. Morcom has noted this species in July.

92—2g8. Calidris arenaria (Linn. ).
Sanderling.

Common throughout the winter in flocks on the sandy sea
beaches. It remains common until the middle of May, and H. S.
Swarth has taken specimens at Redondo as late as June 4 (’97).
93—2¢9. Limosa fedoa (Linn.).

Marbled Godwit.

Noted occasionally along the coast during the migrations.

94—254. Totanus melanoleucus (Gmel.).

Greater Yellow-legs.

Tolerably common winter visitant. Generally flushed from the
margins of fresh water ponds and sloughs. G. F. Morcom saw this
bird at Nigger Slough, June 19 ('97), and H. S. Swarth has observed
itin July. These were probably stragglers, as there is no evidence of
their breeding.
95—256a. Totanus solitarzus cinnamomeus Brewst.

Western Solitary Sandpiper.

Common migrant on the interior lowlands. W. B. Judson reports
it as numerous along the Los Angeles River in the fall. He tock the
earliest specimen, Aug. 27 (’95). H. S. Swarth has taken it in the
spring near Los Angeles from April 21 to May 2 (97).

96—258a. Symphemia semipalmata inornata Brewst.

Western Willet.
Common migrant and occasional through the winter on the tide
marshes along the coast. I took specimens near San Pedro, Sept. 3, ’97.

18 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication £1,

97—259. Heteractitis incanus (Gmel.).
Wandering Tattler.

Two specimens were shot by F. Stephens in the latter part of
March, ‘93 at Catalina Island. Probably occurs in winter along the
rocky shores west of San Pedro.

98—263. Actitis macularia (J.inn.).
Spotted Sandpiper.

Common migrant over most parts of the county. I have taken it
in the vicinity of Pasadena from April 21 ('97), until May 12 (’96),
during the spring migrations. F.S. Daggett found it common along
the San Gabriel Cafion several miles back in the mountains, May 8,
(97). In the fall it occurs most commonly along the coast; observed
at San Pedro, Aug. 31 (’97). It was tolerably common at Catalina
Island in December, ’97.

99—264. Numentus longivosiris Wils.

Long-billed Curlew.
Common winter visitant on the tide marshes along the coast. I

have seen solitary pairs near Long Beach in July, so possibly a few
breed.

100—265. Numenius hudsonicus Lath.

Hudsonian Curlew.

Common spring and fall migrant in marshy places throughout the
lowlands. A.M. Shields states this species to be numerous at Alamitos
and Ballona during the spring migrations from March 15 to May 1.

101—270. Sguatarola squatarola (Linn.).

Black-bellied Plover.

Common spring and fall migrant along the coast. Uusually noted
on the beaches and mud-flats at the mouths of the sloughs.
102—273. £gialitis vocifera (Linn.).

Killdeer.

Abundant resident on wet meadows and about any fresh water
streams or ponds. Sometimes they gather in large flocks in newly-
mown alfalfa fields where they are very beneficial in destroying army-
worms and other insects. A.M. Shields says that the breeding season

extends ordinarily from the middle of March to the last of May. Evan
Davis took a set of four near Santa Ana on June rsth.

103—274. A:gialitis semipalmata Bonap.

Semipalmated Plover.

Tolerably common migrant. I have noted it only in the fall along
the coast. Specimens were secured Sept. 7 (’95), and Oct. 17 (’94).
Occurs in small flocks on mud flats and beaches.

104—278. gialitis nivosa Cass.
Snowy Plover.

Common resident along the coast. Usually seen in winter in
small companies, but in the breeding season they scatter over the sandy
beaches, and are found nesting just above the reach of the surf often in

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 19

the same vicinity with the Least Terns. Evan Davis took full sets of
three eggs each at Newport Beach on May 1 (’97), and on the same
day took two young. O. W. Howard took a set of three slightly in-
cubated eggs, July 7 (’95). These indicate the extent of the breeding
season, the average being about the first of June. Full sets are almost
always of three.

105—28r. £gialitis montana (Towns. ).

Mountain Plover.
Common winter visitant on the interior fields and pasture lands.
At times large numbers are offered in the Los Angeles game markets.

10}—28,. Avenaria melanocephala (Vig.).

Black Turnstone.

Two immature specimens were taken by F. Stephens in the latter
part of March, ’93, on Catalina Island. I noted it in the same locality
toward the last of December, ’97. J. W. Daniel, Jr., writes me that he
took a specimen at Redondo Beach, June 14, ’96.
107—292a. Oreortyx pictus plumiferus (Gould).

Plurmed Partridge.

Common resident in the mountainous districts from the highest
summits to the foothills. Most numerous in the heavy growth of
scrub oak and manzanita which covers the southern slopes of the
higher mountains. The ‘‘Mountain Quail,’’ as it is locally termed, is
not easily flushed and as it generally remains on the steep hill-sides in
the almost impenetrable brush, it does not afford much sport to hunters.
In time of heavy snow in the mountains, these birds appear in consid-
erable numbers in the lower foothills, and individuals have even been
seen in Pasadena, three miles from the base of the mountains. The
breeding season begins in April. H. Leland found a nest in the Linda
Vista hills west of Pasadena, May 7,97. It contained ten eggs of the
Plumed Partridge and four eggs of the Valley Partridge; all were fresh.
The Plumed Partridge was flushed from the nest. I have taken young
apparently but a day or two old, on Pine Flats, as late as July 15.

108—z29ga. Caltipepla calzfornica vallicola Ridgw.
Valley Partridge.

Abundant resident throughout the county except the higher
mountains and marsh lands. The range of this species and the Plumed
Partridge overlaps in the foothill regions, but the two species never
flock together. The Valley ‘‘Quail’’ is ste game bird of Southern
California. It is particularly abundant in the vicinity of vineyards,
and is said to do considerable damage to the grapecrop. The breed-
ing season begins in April and extends nearly through the summer.
H. Robertson took a set of nine fresh eggs near Los Angeles, Aug. 9,
’97. Full sets vary from 9 to 23 eggs, usually 15 to 17.

109—295. Callipepla gambelii (Gambel).
Gambel’s Partridge.

H. S. Swarth took an adult male near Los Angeles, Sept. 16, 96.
This species occurs regularly not more than fifty miles northward and but
a little further to the eastward, so the probabilities are that this bird

20 : Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication LI.

was a straggler. The plumage showed no marks of its having been in
confinement.
110—372. Columba fasciata Say.

Band-tailed Pigeon.

Irregular resident. In some winters it appears in flocks of hun-
dreds in the oak regions on the mountains and along the foothills. Its
presence or absence seems to be governed by the crop of acorns, here
and elsewhere. In the spring of ’95 a flock remained at Oak Knoll,
south of Pasadena, until the middle of June. Breeds sparingly on the
higher mountains. C. E. Groesbeck found a nest on Mt. Wilson, July
5,94. It was ona horizontal oak branch extending out over a deep
gorge, and contained a single squab about a week old. W. B. Judson
found a nest on Mt. Wilson, May 23, ’97. It contained but one egg,
considerably incubated.

111—-376. Zenatidura macroura (Linn.).
: Mourning Dove.

Abundant resident throughout the lowlands, and less common in
summer up to the summits of the mountains. Generally seen in pairs
or small flocks in weed patches and stubble fields or at watering places.
In the vicinity of Pasadena the Doves nearly all disappear in winter,
but are then found in large flocks in the lower country. Breeding sea-
son quite extensive: C. E. Groesbeck took a set of two fresh eggs,
March 14 (’96); and H. S. Swarth fonnd a set of eggs just hatching,
Sept. 15 (97).
112—32z. Pseudogryphus californianus (Shaw).

California Vulture.

Tolerably common resident in the mountainous parts of the county.
Hardly a day passes in the vicinity of Mt. Wilson without one or more
being seen. They undoubtedly breed in one of the precipitous cafions
near by. The ‘‘Condors”’ are also frequently seen in the Santa Mon-
ica and Simi Mountains. In the latter locality I once saw seven at one
time circling overhead. The Condor is not by any means becoming
extinct in this part of the State, and if they continue to be as shy as
now, there is not much likelihood of their extermination very soon.
118— 325. Cathartes aura (Linn.).

Turkey Vulture.

Abundant resident. Less common in the middle of winter. Breeds
in the foothills from the latter part of March to the last of April. Evan
Davis writes that in the vicinity of Orange he does not find eggs until
May. He took sets on the 8th and roth of that month. ‘Two eggs
constitute a full set.

114328. Elanus leucurus (Vieill.).
White-tailed Kite.

Tolerably common resident in the lowlands. Nests in the willow
region in March and April. A.M. Shields has taken sets in the:
neighborhood of Alamitos as follows: Set 5 fresh, April 4, ’96; set 5
fresh, April 11, ’96; nest containing two young one-half grown and
two addled eggs, April 11, ’96; incomplete set of two fresh eggs,
probably a second set laid by the pair of birds first tobbed, May 3, ’96.

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 21

115—337. Circus hudsontus (Linn.).
Marsh Hawk.

Very common in the lowlands, especially in the vicinity of
swaps and wet pastures. Resident throughout the year, but some-
what more numerous in winter. Breeds commonly in May, laying
four or five eggs.

116—332. Accipiter velox (Wils.).
Sharn-sbinned Hawk.

Common in fall and winter throughout the county. Food, almost
entirely composed of small birds. This hawk is to a certain extent
nocturnal in habits. I have shot specimens long after dark as they
flew overhead outlined against the clear sky. They sometimes create
quite a disturbance after dusk, stealthily flitting through trees where
linnets are roosting, and without doubt preying on them. I have seen
Sharp-shinned Hawks in the mountains in every month of spring and
summer, so a few probably breed.

117—333. <Accipiter cooperii (Bonap.).
Cooper’s Hawk.

Tolerably common resident along the foothills. Breeds late in
April. Ed. Simmons took sets of four eggs each, slightly incubated,
on April 28, ’95, and April 26, ’96. Both of these were in cafions
north of Pasadena.

11383—3376. Buteo borealis calurus (Cass.).

Western Red-tail.

This hawk is zenerally of common occurrence throughout the
county. I saw adults and young in July, ’97, on Mt. Waterman
(8500 feet). The breeding season is at its height the last week in
March. Extreme dates: Set of fresh eggs taken by Evan Davis near
Orange, Feb. 26 (’97); set 2, incubation advanced, taken in San Fer-
nando Valley, April 30 (’92), by H. A. Gaylord. Full sets are gen-
erally of two or three, but M. L. Wicks, Jr., took a set of four eggs.
This hawk, in common with other species, is popularly known as Hen-
hawk or Chickenhawk, and is relentlessly killed whenever chance is
offered. I think the great increase in the numbers of ground squirrels
in some parts of the county is due in part to the destruction of hawks
and owls, which were formerly far more numerous than now.

119—3396. Buteo lineatus elegans (Cass. ).

Red-bellig¢d Hawk.

Tolerably common in the lower parts of the county, especially in
the oak and willow regions. Extent of breeding season, indicated by
the following instances: Set 4, slightly incubated, taken at El Monte,
March 15 (’97), by C. E. Groesbeck; set 2, incubation begun, taken
at Compton, May 22 (’92), also by C. E. Groesbeck. Sets are of two
to five eggs.
120—3¢2. Buteo swainsont Bouap.

Swainson’s Hawk.

As far as I can learn this is only a spring and summer visitant.

On windy days, in late March and early April, large numbers are some-

22 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication IT.

times seen flying northwestward in migration, and similarly in the lat-
ter part of September long, straggling flocks are observed at a mod-
erate height, flying in a southeasterly direction. This species appar-
ently breeds in considerable numbers, but is confined to the valleys and
lowlands. The usual time of egg-laying is in the latter part of April
and early May. L. Chambers reports taking fresh eggs as late as June
1, near Santa Monica. Sets are of two or three.

121—348. Archibuteo ferrugineus (Licht. ).
Ferruginous Rough-leg.
Tolerably common for a hawk, appearing mostly in the fall. A

few undoubtedly breed, though I have failed to learn of any authentic
nesting data.

122—3¢9. Aquila chrysaétos (Liun.).
Golden Eagle.

Tolerably common in the mountainous parts of the county. Nests
are built in tall fir trees and are usually inaccessible; at least no sets
have been taken in this county, to my knowledge. Full-fledged young
appear in July.

1238— 352. Haliwetus leucocephalus (Linn. ).

Bald Eagle.

Tolerably common in certain localities along the coast, and of cas-
ual occurrence inland as far as Pasadena. LL. Chambers took a set of
two considerably incubated eggs near Santa Monica, March 13, ’97.
The nest was about forty feet above the ground, in a large sycamore
near the beach. Evan Davis secured a set of two near Santa Ana,
March 5, ’95.

124— 395. Falco mexicanus Schleg.
Prairie Falcon.

Tolerably common in fall and winter in the foothill and mesa
regions.

125— 356. Falco peregrinus anatum (Bonap.).

Duck Hawk.

Of occasional occurrence along the coast and over the lowlands
further inland. A pair is said to have formerly nested in one of the
caves in Hagle Rock, near Pasadena.

126—357. Falco columbarius Linn.

Pigeon Hawk.
_Tolerably common during fall and winter in the foothill and mesa
regions.
127—360a, falco sparverius deserticolus Mearns.

Desert Sparrow Hawk.

Abundant throughout the county, from the coast to the highest
mountains. In the lowlands the Sparrow Hawk is most frequently
noticed perched on telegraph poles along the railroads, or hovering
over the fields on the lookout for its prey. It feeds principally on in-
sects, grasshoppers in particular, and is thus beneficial to the farmer,
aud in this vicinity is seldom persecuted as are the larger hawks.

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 23

Breeds commonly wherever proper tlesting sites ate to be found. Eggs
usually laid in April, though individual pairs often nest earlier, or if
the first set is destroyed, much later; set 5, incubation slight, taken by
me near Pasedena, March 18 (’93); set 5, incubation medium, taken
by E. Parker near Claremont, June 27 (’97). Sets are of three to six
eggs, generally four or five.

128—36;. Pandion haliaetus carolinensis (Gmel.).

American Osprey.

Of occasional occurrence along the coast, mostly in fall and spring.
None nest within the county at present, except on the Islands, where
they breed abundantly. M. L. Wicks, Jr.. tells me that a pair formerly
had a nest on a rock in the surf near Santa Monica.

129—365. Strix pratincola Bonap.
American Barn Owl.

This is probably our best known owl, making its home in barn
lofts, church towers and garrets. It is popularly known as Golden
Owl and Monkey-faced Owl. Breeds commonly in March and April,
in the oak regions, as well as in buildings and holes in banks. C. E.
Groesbeck found a nest containing half-grown young, on Feb. 11 (’97),
and on the same date took a set of six slightly incubated eggs; H. Le-
land took a set of five fresh eggs on June 5 (97). Both were near
Pasadena.

130—366. Asio wilsonianus (Less.).

American Long-eared Owl.

Common resident in the willow regions of the lowlands. Eggs
are most generally laid in April. Extremes: C. E. Groesbeck took a
set of four eggs almost ready to hatch, near El Monte, March 15 (’97).
R. Arnold took a set of four fresh eggs in San Fernando Valley,
May 1 (’92).

131—367. Asio accipitrinus (Pall.).
Short-eared Owl.

Apparently a tolerably common winter visitant. Observed only
in wet meadows in the lowlands. On November 7 (’96), I flushed a
flock of five from an alfalfa field near El Monte, and secured two.
Feb. 8 (’93) is the latest authentic record in the spring. This owl has
recently been reported as nesting in this county, but I consider the
identity questionable.

132—369. Syrnium occidentale Xantus.
Spotted Owl.

Apparently a resident, though in small numbers, in the higher
mountains. Several specimens have been taken in the cafions north of
Pasadena in winter, and I took an adult male in moulting plumage in
the same vicinity, Aug. 10 (94). F. J. Illingworth secured full-fledged
young in a cafion near Claremont, July 4 (94), and has seen adults in
the same place on several occasions since.

13883—373c Megascops asio bendire: (Brewst.).

California Screech Owl.
Common resident in the oak regions from the lowlands to 5000

24 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication If.

feet elevation in the mountains. Breeds principally in April. Incom-
plete set of 2 fresh eggs, taken March 14 (’96) by C. E. Groesbeck; set
3, incubation advanced, taken by myself June 5 (’95), both near Pasa-
dena. Sets are ordinarily of 3 to 5 eggs, but Evan Davis reports as
many as 8 in a set.

1384—375¢. Bubo virginianus pacificus Cass.

Pacific Horned Owl.

Tolerably common resident in the mesa and foot-hill regions, but
becoming scarcer every year. Breeds in February and March. A. M.
Shields took a set of three fresh eggs in San Fernando valiey, Feb. 15,
(95). A.I. McCormick found a nest April 4 (’97), containing two
young just hatched and one addled egg. Full sets are of two or three,
usually the latter number.

1385— 378. Speotyto cunicularia hypog@a (Bonap. ).

Burrowing Owl.

Abundant resident on the lowlands and mesas. On the fields
around Bixby and South Clearwater, this bird is particularly numer-
ous. Nesting begins early iu April. Latest set, 4 fresh, taken by me
near Pasadena, June 3 ('93). Sets 6 to 11, usually 9.

1386—379. Glaucidium gnoma Wagl.
Pygmy Owl.
Quite a number of specimens have been taken in midwinter in the
mountains north of Pasadena. They undoubtedly breed in the higher
ranges, and are driven to lower altitudes by the winter storms.

137— 385. Geococcyx californianus (Less. ).

Road-runner.

Common resident of the brush and cactus-covered washes and
mesas, though scarcer now than formerly. Nests principally toward
the latter part of March, though I have taken fresh eggs in the vicinity
of Pasadena from March 12 (’92) until June 12 (’93). There is appar-
ently no such thing as a full set of Road-runners’ eggs, as they are laid
at intervals of several days, and incubation begins with the first egg.
Thus I have found fresh and variously incubated eggs in the same nest
with good-sized young. The largest number of eggs I have ever found
in a nest at one time was seven.

138—387a. Coccyzus americanus occidentalis Ridgw.

California Cuckoo.

Tolerably common summer resident in the willow regions of the
lowlands. This bird, shy and of secretive habits, I have found easily
overlooked. If carefully watched for, it will probably be found com-
common where it is now seldom or not at all noticed. Breeds late. M.
L. Wicks, jr., took a set of four slightly incubated eggs, a few miles
east of Santa Monica, June 7, ’89.

189—390. Ceryle aleyon (Linn.).
Belted Kingfisher.

Occurs in considerable numbers during the migrations in suitable
localities from the coast to the foothills, and a few are found at all sea-

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 25

sons of the year. In the harbor of San Pedro they are in spring and
fall very conspicuous, flying over the water or perching on the rig-
ging of vessels.
140—393d. Dryobates villosus hyloscopus (Cab.).

Cabanis’s Woodpecker.

Locally common in wooded regions from the lowlands to the
higher mountains. In severe winters they are sometimes quite numer-
ous in the oak regions, Although this woodpecker breeds in mod-
erate numbers, but one set has been taken. G. F. Morcom took a set
of three slightly incubated eggs, May 2, ’97, at Cerritos, near Comp-
ton. On the same day another nest was found, containing one fresh
egg. Ihave found nests in the latter part of June containing large
young.
141—39¢a. Dryobates pubescens gairdnerii (Aud.).

Gairdner’s Woodpecker.

Not so common as Cabanis’s Woodpecker, but found in about the
same localities. I have never seen it above 4000 feet in the mountains.
Sets have been taken in the willow regions in May.

142—397. Dryobates nuttallit (Gamb.).
Nuttall’s Woodpecker.

Common in any wooded locality from the lowlands up to 5000
feet in the mountains. Nests in considerable numbers in the willow
regions. I took a set of three slightly incubated eggs, May 19 (’94);
and R. Arnold reports a set of three, incubation begun, taken June 6
(96). These indicate the approximate extent of the breeding season.

148— 399. Xenopicus albolarvatus (Cass. ).
White-beaded Woodpecker.

A common resident of the pine regions on the higher ranges from
5000 feet to their summits. I have taken full-fledged young on Pine
Flats as early as July 1.
144—402a. Sphyrapicus varius nuchalis Baird.

Red-naped Sapsucker.

Of occasional occurrence along the foothills in midwinter. Spec-
imens taken in the vicinity of Pasadena by H. A. Gaylord and myself,
Dec. 26 (’95), and Feb. 13 (’97).

145—403. Sphyrapicus ruber (Gmel.).
Red-breasted Sapsucker.

More or less common winter visitant in wooded districts. Often-
est noticed, even along the noisy city streets, in pepper trees, the sap
of which ‘this bird seems to particularly like. I have noted this
woodpecker in Pasadena from Oct. 9 (’95) to March 21 (’97).
146—yog. Sphyrapicus thyroideus (Cass.).

Williamson’s Sapsucker.

Occurs irregularly in winter in the coniferous timber on the
mountains. So far, the records are confined to the months of October,
November and December. Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, ’97, as many as a
dozen were noted on Mt. Wilson.

26 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication II.

147—407a. Melanerpes formicivorus bairdi Ridgw.
Californian Woodpecker.

Abundant resident in the oak regions, and in much less numbers
in the pines and firs up to 6000 feet in the mountains. Breeds in April
and May: Earliest set, five fresh eggs, taken April 5 (‘92), by R.
Arnold in San Fernando Valley. Last set. four fresh, June 3 ('96),
near Pasadena by H. Leland. Sets are of four to eight eggs.

148—zo8. Melanerpes torquatus (Wils.).

Lewis’s Woodpecker.

Common winter visitant in the oak regions and occasionally on
the mountains among the firs. Noted in the vicinity of Pasadena by
F. S. Daggett as early as Sept. 30 (’95), and in the spring I have seen
it as late as May 4 ('95).

149—gr2. Colaptes auratus (Linn.).
Flicker.

An adult male of this eastern species was taken by E. C. Thurber
at Alhambra, Feb 7, ’go,

150—473. Colaptes cafer (Gmel.).
Red-sbhafted Flicker.

Common throughout the year in wooded localities, but most gen-
erally distributed aud much more abundant in winter. Breeds from
the willow regions in the lowlands up to 6000 feet in the mountains.
Eggs usually laid in May. Earliest set, five fresh, taken April 16
(’96), in San Fernando Valley by C. E. Groesbeck; last set, four
slightly incubated, taken near Pasadena, June 15 ('94), by H. A. Gay-
lord. Several ‘‘hybrid’’ Flickers have been taken in the county.

151—478b. Phalenoptilus nuttallii californicus Ridgw.

Dusky Poor-wills

Common in spring, summer and fall in the foothill regions, and
occasional up to 6000 feet on brushy slopes in the mountains. During
the spring and fall migrations the note of this bird is frequently heard
at night far out on the mesas and uplands. E. Simmons, who resides
at the base of the mountains north of Pasadena, states that he hears
this bird during every month of the year, though from Dee. 15 to Jan.
20 last year he heard none, and H. S. Swarth reports seeing a single
individual during the last of December and early part of January, thus
indicating that the Poor-will may remain throughout the year. The
extent of the breeding season is shown by the following sets of two
eggs each, taken by E. Simmons near North Pasadena: Set, fresh,
April 21 (95); set, incubation advanced, June 14 (93).

152—y20. Chordeiles virginianus (Gmel.).

Nighthawk.

Rare migrant. I took a male and saw another, probably the fe-
male, in the evening of Oct. 27,'96. The Nighthawk occurring in
summer in the Sierras and northward through Oregon and Washing-
ton, is apparently identical with this common eastern species.

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 27

1538—g2r. Chordeiles acutipennis texensis (Lawr.).

Texan Nightbawk.

Abundant summer resident, principally of the mesas and dry
washes, First spring arrival noted by H. A. Gaylord, March 21 (96).
Last individual in the fall, seen by me, Sept. 4(’94). Breeds mainly
in May. First set, taken by me near Pasadena, two fresh, April 21
(97); latest set, two slightly incubated, taken July 11 (’95), by H.S.
Swarth in San Fernando Valley.

154—422. Cypseloides niger borealis (Kennerly).

Black Swift.

Rare migrant. I have seen it on two occasions toward the last of
August flying southeast over Pasadena. W.H. Wakeley has a spec-
imen mounted which was shot near Pasadena late in summer several
years ago.

155—424. Chetura vauxii (Towns.).

Vaux’s Swift.

Common migrant. Generally seen flying in scattered flocks over
the mesas or along the bases of the mountains. Sometimes large com-
panies tarry about reservoirs or ponds. According to my field notes
the migrations occur as follows: In spring, April 22 (’96) to May 2
((96); and in fall, Sept. 3 (’95) to Oct. 13 (‘94).

156—g25. Aeronautes melanoleucus (Baird).

White-throated Swift.

Common in mountain regions in summer, and occasionally seen
during the winter over the lowlands and mesas. Nests in crevices of
the rock in the most inaccessible cliffs. E. Simmons took a set of two
eggs, about one-third incubated, in a mountain cafion north of Pasa-
dena, May 30, ’97. H. G. Rising took a set of two fresh eggs in the
Santa Monica Mountains, June 16, ’97.

157—g29. Trochilus alexandri Bourc. & Muls.

Black-chinned Hummingbird.

Summer resident from the lowlands to the summit of the moun-
tains, but most abundant in the foothill regions, where it breeds in the
cafions in some years by the thousands. Nests are generally situated
near a stream, and are found mostly after the middle of May. I have
taken fresh eggs by April 29 (’95), which I consider very early for this
species, and as late as July 8 (’95); I found a nest containing two half-
grown young near Pasadena, Aug. 24 ('95), which of course is very
late. The abundance of the Hummingbirds is very variable, depend-
ing on the growth of flowering plants. Usually after a wet winter
they are far more numerous than after a dry one. The Black-chinned
Hummingbird arrives in the vicinity of Pasadena from the middle of
April to the first week in May, and the majority disappear by the last
of July. Extreme records from my note-book, April 3 (’95) and
Sept 3 ('95). By the first of July, when the vegetation of the foot-
hills becomes dry, and flowers cease to bloom, the Hummingbirds are
found in countless thousands at higher elevations (6000 to 8500 feet),
where summer is just dawning.

28 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication IT.

158—430. Calypte coste (Bourc.).
Costa’s Hummingbird.

Common summer resident in the mesa and foothill regions, though
ranging from the lowlands to the higher mountains during migration.
Arrives about the middle of April. My earliest and latest records are,
respectively, March 21 (’96) and Sept. 26 ('96). Nests are, as a rule,
found out in the barren washes or on the dry hill-sides, far from water.
The breeding season extends through May and the early part of June.
My earliest set was of two fresh eggs, taken near Pasadena, April 21
(97), and the latest set, of two slightly incubated eggs, taken June
28 (’94), in the same locality.

159—237. Calypte anna (Less.).
Anna’s Hummingbird.

Common throughout the year from the lowlands to the foothill re-
gions, and in July up to 8500 feet in the mountains. Like all the
hummingbirds this species follows the flowers, and its local presence or
absence is governed by their abundance or scarcity. Thus, in August
and September hundreds of Anna’s Hummers are to be found over the
stubble fields and sunflower patches, attracted by the flowers of the
‘‘tar-weed.’’ During the winter months they are found in profusion
about the blossoming eucalyptus trees. In January and February,
when the weather is mild, they appear high on the mountaih sides
among the flowering manzanitas; and in March and April, in the blos-
soming orange groves in the valley, and about the currant bushes on
the hill-sides. The Anna’s Hummingbird is our only species breeding
before the last of April. It nests numerously through February and
March, and sets may be looked for from January to May. A. I. Mc-
Cormick took a set of two eggs, considerably incubated, on Dec. 21
(795); and the same observer noted a nest and eggs in the middle of
July (97); both near Los Angeles.

160—433. Selasphorus rufus (Gmel.).
Rufous Hummingbird.

Very abundant, especially in the blossoming orange groves, during
the spring migrations in April. Apparently entirely absent in mid-
winter, I have noted it at greater or less intervals from Feb. 20 (96)
till Oct. 5 (97), during which time this hummer is evidently found
somewhere in the county in varying numbers. Although the prob-
abilities are that a few breed in the higher mountains where I have
taken adults and juveniles in July, 1 know of no authentic nesting
records, notwithstanding that many eggs purporting to be of this spe-
cies have been sent from this county. I have never noted this hum-
mer, from April 29 until August 16, below 5000 feet, and it is doubt-
ful if any breed south of the San Gabriel ranges.

161—434. Selasphorus allent Hensh.
Allen’s Hummingbird.

A tolerably common spring migrant, occurring along with the
Rufous Hummer in the latter part of March and April.

162—436. Stellula calliope Gould.
Calliope Hummingbird.
Common summer resident above 5000 feet in the mountains. I

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 29

took juveniles near Mt. Waterman on July 14,’97. A few have been
taken in April and early May, evidently in migration, on the lowlands
and mesas, usually near the base of the mountains.

168—444. Tyrannus tyrannus (Linn.).
Kingbird.

Only one record: An immature male taken by W. B. Judson at
Santa Monica, Aug. 31, '95.

164—447. Tyrannus verticalis Say.
Arkansas Kingbird.

Abundant in summer throughout the lowlands and mesas. My
earliest and latest records are, respectively, March 17 ('96) and Sept.
14 (’97). Breeds mainly toward the last of May, in the vicinity of
ranches and along country roads. Earliest set, cf three fresh eggs,
taken May 7 ('93), by H. A. Gaylord in San Fernando Valley.
Latest set, of three eggs, incubation about one-half, taken by me June
28 ('92) near Pasadena. Full sets in this vicinity consist of three to
seven eggs, usually four or five.
165—gz&. “Tyrannus vociferans Swains.

Cassin’s Kingbird.

Common in winter in the lower parts of the county. I have noted
it in the vicinity of Pasadena from Sept. 16 (’95) until May 1 ('97).
A few remain through the summer and probably breed in the western
part of the county. H. Robertson saw a pair west of Los Angeles,
June 9 (’97), which he has no doubt had a-nest near by. I found sev-
eral nests containing young in July ('93) in Simi Valley, just over the
line in Ventura County, and I saw adults on this side at Chatsworth
Park.
166—z54. Myiarchus cinerascens (Lawr.).

Ash-throated Flycatcher.

Common summer resident from the oak regions of the lowlands
up to 6000 feet in the mountains. ‘Earliest arrival in the spring noted
by H. A. Gaylord, April 4 ('96); and I have seen a very few as late as
September, the last, Sept. 14 (’95). Breeds most commonly in the
last week of May. Extremes: Set five fresh, taken by W. B. Judson,
May 16 (’97) in the West Fork, north of Mt. Wilson; and a set of four
fresh eggs, taken in the same locality by H. Leland. June 8 (‘96).
167—457. Sayornis saya (Bonap.).

Say’s Phoebe.

Common winter visitant over the mesas and lowlands. I have
noted it in the vicinity of Pasadena from Sept. 10 (’94), till March
14 (95).

168—458. Sayornis nigricans (Swaius. ).
Black Phoebe.

Common resident of the lowlands and occasional along streams up

to 6000 feet in the mountains. Usually to be found near water, and

especially about barns and stockyards. Eggs usually laid toward the
last of April. Extremes: Set four, slightly incubated, taken by C. E.

30 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication If.

Groesbeck near Pasadena, March 28 (’97); and three fresh, taken by
the same collector on the West Fork of the San Gabriel Cafion, June
5 (96). Sets are of three to five eggs, ordinarily four.
169—gs59. Contopus borealis (Swains.).

Olive-sided Flycatcher.

Common in summer above 3000 feet in the mountains, and during
the migrations frequently seen on the lowlands and mesas. This bird
is a late arrival in the spring, my earliest record being April 24 (’96).
In the fall the latest record was a specimen taken Sept. 26 (’96); both
near Pasadena. As this species nests in the tallest coniferous trees
the eggs are hard to secure. W. B. Judson took a set of three consid-
erably incubated eggs on Mt. Wilson, June 11, 97. Nearly fledged
young ordinarily appear about the 15th of July.

170—462. Contopus richardsonit (Swains.).

Western Wood Pewee.

Common summer resident of the cafions and coniferous forests up
to 7000 feet. During the migrations, more or less common along
streams and in wooded localities on the lowlands. My notes give the
earliest arrival in the vicinity of Pasadena, April 18 (’95), and the last
in the fall, Sept. 30 ('94). Breeds mainly in June. Extremes: Set 3,
incubation slight, taken by A. I, McCormick near Los Angeles, May
25 ('95); and 3, slightly incubated, taken near Pasadena by H. A.
Gaylord, July 11 (’94). Sets are of 2 to 4 eggs, mostly 3.

171—464. Empidonax difficilis Baird.
Western Flycatcher.

Common summer resident of the mountain cafions. During the
migrations, noted all over the lowlands. My notes, taken in the vicin-
ity of Pasadena, show the earliest arrival March 30 (96), and the last
seen in the fall, Oct. 10 ('96). Eggs are laid mostly during the latter
part of May. My earliest set was of 4 considerably incubated eggs
taken May 11 (’95); and the latest, of 4 slightly incubated eggs taken
June 29 ('95). Full sets are almost always of 4.

172—466. LEmpidonax traillii (Aud.).

Traill’s Flycatcher.

Common in summer in the willow regions of the lowlands. Ar-
tives late. My earliest record is May 4 (’95); latest in the fall, Sept.
26 ('96). Nests mostly in June. Extremes: Set 3, slightly incubated,
taken by A. I. McCormick near Los Angeles, May 25 ('95), and a sim-
ilar set taken by H. A. Gaylord near Pasadena, July 11 (’94). Full
sets are ordinarily of three eggs. H. Robertson reports several sets of
four each.

173468. Empidonax hammondi (Xantus).

Hammond's Flycatcher.

Common migrant. Most numerous in the spring, when it is ob-
served mostly on the mesas along the base of the mountains. From H.
A. Gaylord's notes, the earliest spring arrival was April 9 (’96), and
the last to depart, May 9 (’96). In the fall I have seen this Fly-
catcher by the first week in September, and I took a specimen as late
as Oct. 30 (’97).

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 31

174— 469.2. Empidonax griseus Brewst.

Gray Flycatcher.

Apparently to be found in some portion of our County throughout
the year. In fall, winter and spring it occurs in the vicinity of Pasa-
dena and El Monte in small numbers. Scarcely a dozen specimens
have been secured though they have been looked for with special
interest. The earliest specimen in the fall was taken by H. A. Gay-
lord in the San Gabriel River bottom near El Monte, Nov. 7 (’96),
and the latest in the spring, by me near Pasadena, May 4(’97). Al-
though I have pretty well explored the mountainous parts of the
County, I have found the Gray Flycatcher in summer only in one
limited locality, on the slopes of Mt. Waterman (7500 to 8500 feet).
There, in July, this bird is not uncommon, though very shy, keeping
in the tallest pines on the mountain sides. I secured full-fledged juve-
niles as early as July 11 (’97). Specimens of this species were iden-
tified by Wm. Brewster, its original describer, to whom I sent them
for determination.

175-471. Pyrocephalus rubineus mexicanus (Scl.).
Vermillion Flycatcher.

Rare winter visitant in the lowlands. A female was taken by G. F.
Morcom in Los Angeles, Oct. 17, ’95. H. A. Gaylord took specimens
at El Monte, Oct. 17, ’96 (immature male), Dec. 8, ’95 (adult male)
and Feb. 8, ’96 (adult female). Besides these specimens actually taken,
others have been occasionally seen in winter in the San Gabriel River
bottom.
176—a7ze. Otocoris alpestris chrysolema (Wagl.).

Mexican Horned Lark.

Abundant resident over most of the lowlands and mesas. Espec-
ially numerous on the alkali pasture lands a few miles inland from the
coast. In fall and early winter, large flocks gather on newly planted
grain fields, and at that season do some damage. Begins breeding
early, and continues well into the summer. 1 have found nearly
fledged young the last week in March. I took sets of 3 and 4 fresh
eggs on April 17, ’95, at Pasadena. G. F. Morcom took an incom-
plete set of 2 fresh eggs in the San Fernando Valley, June 5, ’95.
1i7— y78a. Cyanocitta stellert frontalis (Ridgw.).

Blue-fronted Jay.

Common resident of the coniferous regions in the mountains.
During severe winters this Jay appears in the foot-hills along with the
Belding’s Jay, and sometimes even in the oak regions at lower eleva-
tions on the mesas. Breeds late. I took a set of 4, considerably incu-
bated, on June 1, ’95, and C. E. Groesbeck took a set of three fresh
eggs, on June 4, ’96. Both were in the mountains a few miles north
of Pasadena. I secured an adult female of this species in perfect albino
plumage on Oct. 10, ’96.
178—y4816. Aphelocoma californica obscura Anthony.

Belding’s Jay.

Common resident of the scrub oak regions of the foot-hills and

mesas. J,ess common on the brushy mountain sides up to 6000 feet.

32 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication If.

Breeds usually in April. A nest was found near Pasadena on March
25 (’97), which contained young about two-thirds grown; this was un-
usually early. The latest set was of five fresh eggs taken by H. A.
Gaylord, May 25 (’95). This is undoubtedly the form to which our
Aphelocome are referable, for they are not the same as the true 4. ca/z-
fornica found further north. The habitat of A. ¢. obscura, which was
described from the San Pedro Martir Mountains, Lower California,
probably extends north, though less and less typically, as far as
‘Tehachapi.

179—486. Corvus corax sinuatus (Wagl.).

American Raven.

Common resident in the lower parts of the County, principally in
the hill country. Frequently seen flying over the valleys from one
range of hills to another, but as a general thing very shy and not ven-
turing into settled regions. Lee Chambers took a set of three slightly
incubated eggs near Santa Monica, May 9, ’96.

180—487. Corvus cryptoleucus Couch.

White-necked Raven.
F. S. Daggett found the partly decomposed remains of one of these
birds under a tree in San Fernando Valley, April 18, ’97. Possibly
the ravens which are common in that section are of this species.

181—488. Corvus americanus Aud.

American Crow.

Abundant resident in the lowlands. Breeds commonly in the
willow regions in April. Earliest set, of five fresh eggs, taken by M.
L. Wicks, Jr., near Santa Monica, April 1 (’93). Latest, of five consid-
erably incubated eggs taken in San Fernando Valley by R. Arnold,
May 17 (’94). Sets are of four or five eggs, mostly the latter number.

182—go9r. Nucifraga columbiana (Wils.).

Clarke’s Nutcracker.

Common resident in the coniferous forests above 6000 feet. In
the vicinity of Mt. Waterman they are very numerous, and I secured
full-grown juveniles there in July (97).

1838— 492. Cyanocephalus cyanocephalus (Wied).
: Pinon Jay.

Irregular visitant in the County, mostly in the higher mountains.
In the fall of ’95, from Sept. 1 to 21, good-sized flocks were seen every
‘day or two in the vicinity of Pasadena flying northwest over the mesas
‘and along the foot-hills. A small flock alighted in some eucalyptus

trees in the heart of Pasadena, and remained several minutes before
continuing their flight.

184—497. Nanthocephalus xanthocephalus (Bonap.).

Yellow-headed Blackbird.

Occurs in large wandering flocks in the lowlands. The adult
males are usually seen in bands by themselves, not mixing with the
larger flocks which are made up of females and immature males. H.
S. Swarth found this species nesting in small numbers in the tule beds

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 33

of Nigger Slough. Nests all contained young, June 19, ’97.

185—498. Agelaius pheniceus (Linn.).

Red-winged Blackbird.

Abundant resident of the lowlands, nesting mostly in tule beds,
though often in grain fields, willow thickets and’ even on the ground.
Breeds in the latter part of April and in May. Reliable data concern-
ing the red-winged blackbirds is hard to obtain, as the forms are easily
confused, and may even occur breeding together in one locality.
186—g98a. Agelaius pheniceus longirostris (Salvad.).

Sonoran Red-wing.

A blackbird taken by F. S. Daggett near Pasadena, Nov. 7, 96,
is identified by Robert Ridgway as of this subspecies. I have other
specimens apparently identical with this bird,.taken in March at El
Monte. Our blackbirds will require a good deal of study before they
.can be properly understood.

187—499. Agelaius gubernator californicus Nelson.

California Bicolored Blackbird.

Several specimens of this form have been taken in winter at Bixby
and El Monte, and it may breed in this County, as it does commonly
to the northward; but I have no reliable data, although many eggs
purporting to be of this bird have been sent from the County.

188—s00. Agelaius tricolor (Aud.).
Tricolored Blackbird.

In the lowlands this species occurs in considerable numbers
throughout the year. F.S. Daggett has found it numerous at Bixby
during the winter. G. F. Morcom found a colony nesting near Comp-
ton, and on May 8 (’97), took 35 sets of slightly incubated eggs.
189—so0rd. Sturnella magna neglecta (Aud.).

Western Meadowlark.

A common resident of Meadows and fields from the coast to the
base of the mountains. In winter it gathers locally into good-sized
flocks, but in summer is more generally distributed. Breedsearly: I
have seen birds carrying nesting material in January. G. F. Morcom
took a set of five slightly incubated eggs, near Los Angeles, March 9
(95). E. Simmoms took a set of four, slightly incubated, near Pasa-
dena, June 7, (’94).
190—sog. Lcterus parisorum Bonap.

Scott’s Oriole.

H. S. Swarth saw an adult male of this species near Los Angeles
on April 19, 95. Although the bird was not secured, I have no hesi-
tancy in considering this a good record, as Mr. Swarth is familiar with
the species in Arizona, and is sure of the correctness of his identity.

191—so5a. Icterus cucullatus nelsoni Ridgw.

Arizona Hooded Oriole.
Common in summer about orchards and gardens. Occurs mostly
in the mesa regions, but it sometimes follows up the mountain canons

34 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication IT.

as high as 4000 feet, especially where there are sycamore trees. My
notes show the first arrival to be a male on March 15 (’97), and the
last seen in the fall, a juvenile, Sept. 18 (’97). ‘Two broods are usually
teared in a season. ‘The earliest set was of four slightly incubated
eggs taken by me in Pasadena, April 26, (’95)._H. Leland found a
nest Aug. 3 (’97), containing one fresh egg. On Aug. 25 this nest
held a brood of small young. Sets are most always of four.

192—s508. Icterus bullocki (Swains.).
Bullock’s Oriole. Z

Abundant in summer on the lowlands and mesas. My notes give
the first arrival, March 16 (’96), and the latest seen, Aug. 10 (’97).
These records were taken at Pasadena, and I have no doubt but that
this bird is found much later in the fall in other parts of the County.
Breeds mostly in May. First set, five fresh, taken by me near Pasa-
dena, May 7 (’95); last set, five incubation advanced, taken by H. A.
Gaylord near Pasadena, July 18 (’94).

198—s70. Scolecophagus cyanocephalus (Wagl.).
Brewer's Blackbird.
Abundant resident throughout the lower parts of the County.

Full sets of eggs are found by the last of April. Evan Davis reports
taking eggs in the vicinity of Orange, as early as March 16th.

194—srga. Coccothraustes vespertinus montanus (Ridgw.).

Western Evening Grosbeak.
FE. B. Towne secured an adult male near Pasadena, Dec. 28, ’9q.
It was with a flock of Western Lark Sparrows among some oak trees.
This is our only record.

195—sr7a. Carpodacus purpureus californicus Baird.
California Purple Finch.
Common winter visitant on the mesas and lowlands, haunting
thickets and bushy places in small companies. I have noted it about
Pasadena from Oct. 27 (’96), till April 29 (’96.) This species probably

breeds sparingly in portions of the mountains. I took an adult pair
which evidently had a nest near by, on Mt. Wilson, June 22, (’95).

196—s57r8. Carpodacus cassint Baird.

Cassin’s Purple Finch.

Common resident of the mountains from 4000 feet up to the sum-
mits. I have found it rather numerous in July on Mt. Waterman, in-
habiting the pine forests. No juveniles were noted, though the fe-
males secured showed signs of having recently incubated. This spe-
cies occurs rarely in winter as low as the foothills, and then but spar-
inly. At that season they gather in small flocks, feeding in the brush,

and seem not to mind the snow, just so the bushes are not entirely
covered.

197—5 19. Carpodacus mexicanus frontalis (Say).

House Finch.
This is the well-known ‘‘linnet,’’ an abundant resident every-
where from the coast to the foothills. In winter large flocks often

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 35

gather in sunflower patches and open fields, but in spring they are
pretty well distributed, and nest almost anywhere, even in cactus. Very
numerous and familiar about houses and gardens. In the summer
these birds do considerable damage to the fruit crop. Breeds in April,
May and June. Earliest set, four fresh eggs, taken by me in Pasa-
dena, March 26 (’96). Last set of four fresh eggs, noted by F. B.
Jewett near Pasadena, Aug. 1 (’96). Sets are of three to six eggs, or-
dinarily four or five.

198—s5296. Spinus tristis salicamans Grinnell.

Willow Goldfinch.

Common resident of the lowlands. In summer they are almost
wholly confined to the willow regions, but in winter they gather into
flocks and wander everywhere, even into the mouniain cafions, where
they feed on the buds and seeds of sycamores and alders. Breeds
mostly in May and June, though I have found fresh eggs early in
April, and small young in August. Sets are four or five.

199—5 30. Spinus psaltria (Say).
Arkansas Goldfinch.

Abundant resident of the foothill regions up to 3000 feet in the
cafions. Less common in the lowlands and up to 6000 feet in the
mountains. Numerous about gardens and orchards, and in common
with the other goldfinches, popularly called ‘‘ Wild Canaries.’ Breeds
mostly: from April to July, but I have found eggs as early as March
22, and in the fall, at least around my home place in Pasadena, they
breed regularly until September and in a few cases later. On Oct. 21
(95) I took a set of three slightly incubated eggs, and during the
first week of November (’97) two broods of young left their nests. In
all cases these late nests are built in evergreens, and at a considerable.
height above the ground.

200—537. Spinus lawrencei (Cass.).
Lawrence’s Goldfinch.

Probably occurs threughout the year, but common only during
the spring and early summer months. Inhabits mainly the mesas and
mountain cafions and pine forests up to 6000 feet. Breeds in May.
The earliest set, of five fresh eggs, was taken by G. F. Morcom at Los
Angeles, April 23 ('92); and the latest, a set of five slightly incubated
eggs, May 27 (’93), taken by me near Pasadena. I have never noted
this goldfinch during the fall months, that is, from September to No-
-vember, in any part of the county, but in December and on until the
last of March, small flocks haunt the banks of the arroyos and weed
patches, after which they pair off and scatter through the orchards and
caflons.

201—5 33. Spinus pinus (Wils.).
Pine Siskin.

Irregular winter visitant in the willow regions of the lowlands. In
1892 this bird was very abundant during February and March; and it
again appeared, though in smaller numbers, during the same months
in 1897. They were noted in the neighborhood of El Monte as late as
March 20 (’97). In July (’97) I found the Pine Siskin to be tolerably

36 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication LI.

common in the vicinity of Mt. Waterman (7000 to 8500 feet). Anadult
female was secured on July 14, which was evidently incubating, and a
few days later I saw a full-fledged brood of young following their
parents.

202—-540a, Poocetes gramineus confinis Baird.

Western Vesper Sparrow.
Common winter visitant. Found in stubble fields and washes,
especially on the dry mesas. My earliest and latest records are, re-
spectively, Sept 14 (97) and March 1g (’95); both near Pasadena.

2038—5406. Poocetes gramineus affinis Miller.

Oregon Vesper Sparrow.

Common winter visitant occurring in company with the last, but
possibly more numerous on the damper meadows of the lowlands. My
earliest record for this subspecies is Sept. 16 (’95). H. A. Gaylord has
noted the latest, April 25 (’96); both near Pasadena.

204—5426. Ammodramus sandwichensis alaudinus (Bonap.).

Western Savanna Sparrow.

Abundant winter visitant, inhabiting fields and meadows from the
coast to the mesas. In the vicinity of Pasadena my earliest and latest
records are, respectively, Sept. 18 (’97) and May 3 ('93). Ihave rea-
son to believe that a few remain to breed in the lowlands near the
coast.

205—543. Ammodramus belding? Ridgw.

Belding’s Marsh Sparrow.

Abundant resident of the salt water marshes along the coast.
Nests in the marsh grass just above the reach of the tide. Breeds
mostly in May. Earliest set, four fresh eggs, taken by G. F. Moreom
at Ballona, April 14 (’97); latest set, three, incubation advanced, taken
by H. A. Gaylord near Long Beach, July 5 (’95).

206—s44. .Immodramus rostratus Cass.

Large-billed Sparrow,

Common in winter in the salt marshes and along the beaches, but
far less numerous than the Belding’s Sparrow. In San Pedro Harbor
this bird frequents the wharves and breakwaters, and even hops fear-
lessly about the decks of vessels, feeding on crumbs and flies, Al-
though observed from August to late in April, this sparrow apparently
disappears altogether during the summer months, but where it breeds
seems to be as yet unknown.

207—546a. Ammodramus savannarum perpallidus (Coues),

Western Grasshopper Sparrow.

On account of its secretive iabits this sparrow is ‘not often met
with. It frequents ‘grassy fields, where its mouse-like habit of run-
ning through the grass, rather than taking flight, renders it difficult
to discover. During the winter of 1891-’92 a pair remained in a va-
cant lot in Pasadena, and became quite tame, so that I could approach
within an arm's length without frightening them. G. F. Morcom
took an adult male of this species at Tos Angeles, April 30 ('95),

March, 1898. _—_ Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 37

which is the latest known occurrence in the spring. W. B. Judson
took a specimen at Highland Park, near Los Angeles, Aug. 10 (’97),
which might indicate that it had remained throughout the summer.

208—552a. Chondestes grammacus strigatus (Swains. ).

Western Lark Sparrow.

Common resident in the lower portion of the county. Quite nu-
merous and familiar about cultivated fields and orchards. Breeds
mostly in April and May, nesting either on the ground or in trees and
bushes. Earliest set, of four fresh eggs, taken by C. E. Groesbeck
near Pasadena, April 18 (’95); latest, of three slightly incubated eggs,
taken by H. A. Gaylord, July 12 (’94). Sets are of three to five eggs.

209—55¢a. Zonotrichia leucophrys intermedia Ridgw.

Intermediate Sparrow.

Abundant winter visitant from the coast to the foot-hills. Weed-
patches and brushy tracts at times fairly swarm with these sparrows;
They arrive regularly about the last week in September, my earliest
date being Sept. 15,(’95). The bulk leave early in April, though I
have shot specimens as late as May 3 (’96).

210—5546. Zonotrichia leucophrys gambeli (Nutt. )

Gambel’s Sparrow.

H. S. Swarth has a specimen, typical of this subspecies, taken at
Los Angeles, Jan. 13,96. Many of our white-crowned sparrows are
intermediate between gambellii and intermedia, indeed, most which I
have examined, are.

211—557. Zunotrichia coronata (Pall.).

Golden-crowned Sparrow.

Common winter visitant from the mesas up to 5000 feet on brushy
mountain sides. My earliest and latest records are, respectively, Sept.
26, (96), and May 9, (’96).
212—s58. Zonotrichia albicollis (Gmel.).

White-throated Sparrow.

H. A. Gaylord secured an immature female near Pasadena, Nov.
21,’94. W.E. Bryant took an adult in Los Angeles, Feb. 25, ’97.
These are our only records.
213—s560a. Spizella socialis arizone Coues.

Western Chipping Sparrow.

Common resident of orchards and gardens in the mesa regions,
and in summer numerous in the coniferous regions on the mountains
up to 8500 feet. Breeds mainly in May, laying usually four eggs.
First.set, of three, probably incomplete, taken near Pasadena by E.
Parker April 19 ('96); latest set, 3; slightly:incubated, noted by H. A,
Gaylord, June 19 (94). 7 Vie eee oe
214—562. Spizella breweri Cass. i

Brewer’s Sparrow.

Tolerably common in summer from 5000 to 7000 feet on the brushy
mountain sides between Pine Flats and Mt. Waterman. I secured full-
grown juveniles there, July 3 ('97). In spring and fall it occurs spar-

28 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication IT.

ingly on the mesas and lowlands. I have taken specimens near Pasa-
dena on March 31 (’96), and April 17 (97). __In the fall H. S. Swarth
noted good-sized flocks in San Fernando Valley, Sept. 22, ’97, and
took an immature male in Los Angeles, Sept. 5, ‘95.

215—565. Spizella atrigularis (Cab.).

Black-chinned Sparrow.

Common in summer on brushy mountain sides. I have noted it
in the breeding season from the base of the foot-hills up to 7000 feet,
where the environment was suitable. In July (’97), I found this bird
numerous in the vicinity of Pine Flats, and secured full-grown juve-
niles, July 3. During the migrations this sparrow occurs sparingly on
the mesas along the foot-hills. ‘The earliest spring record is that of a
specimen taken by H. S. Swarth at Cahuenga Valley April 1 (’96); the
latest in the fall, an immature male, taken by me near Pasadena, Sept.
10 (97).

216—567. Junco hyemalis (Linn.).
Slate-colored Junco.

This bird, usually considered as ‘‘accidental”’ in California, is ap-
parently of pretty regular occurrence in this vicinity, especially so as
compared with some other winter visitants which are expected to ap-
pear regularly. I took a female near Pasadena Nov. 14 ('96). H.S.
Swarth took a male at Los Angeles, Feb. 8 ('97). H. A. Gaylord took
a female at Pasadena, Feb. 27 ('97). F.S. Daggett took a male near
Pasadena, March 4 (’97), and saw at least seven others in a flock,
which had also been seen a week before in the same locality. F. S.
Daggett took a male near Pasadena, March 15 ('93), from a flock of
fifteen, all apparently of the same species.

217—5674. Junco hyematis oregonus (Towns.).
Oregon Junco.
A single specimen was taken by F. S. Daggett at Pasadena, Nov.
24, ’96. ‘This strbspecies can at most be but a rare winter visitant.

218—567¢. Junco hyemalis thurbert Anthony.

Thurber’s Junco.

Abundant in summer in the coniferous forests on the mountains.
In the winter there is a partial movement to lower elevations, and it
appears in small flocks down to the mesas and even further. In the
vicinity of Pasadena I have noted it as early as Oct. 3 ('94), and as
late as April 13 (95). Breeds exclusively in the mountains, mainly
above 5000 feet. ‘I noted fully fledged young in the mountains north
of Pasadena on May 19 ('95). This is extremely early, as the usual
nesting time is the latter part of May. The latest set reported is of 5
slightly incubated eggs taken by R. Arnold on Mt. Wilson, June r2
(92). Full sets consist of 3 to 5 eggs. ee

219—569. Junco caniceps (Woodh.).
Gray-headed Junco.

A single specimen, a female, was taken by W. B. Judson near Pas-
adena, Oct. 26, ’94. This is our only record.

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 39

220—573. Amphispiza bilineata (Cass. ).

Black-throated Sparrow.

I took an adult male in the Arroyo Seco near Pasadena, April to,
‘97. This is our only record.

221—574. Amphisphiza belli (Cass.).

Bell’s Sparrow.
Common resident locally on brush-covered washes on the mesas,
and in summer up to 5000 feet on the mountain sides. I have taken
full-grown young near Pasadena by June 19 (97).

222—574a. Amphispiza belli nevadensis (Ridgw.).

Sage Sparrow.

Tolerably common in summer on the brush-covered slopes in a
limited locality at the head of the Tujunga Cafion (3000 to 6000 feet).
I secured juveniles near Pine Flats, July 3 (97). In winter the Sage
Sparrow occurs sparingly on the mesas along the base of the mountains.

223—580. Peucea ruficeps (Cass. )

Rufous-crowned Sparrow.

Tolerably common locally in the foot-hills, where it undoubtedly
breeds. Occurs throughout the year, but most numerous in April.
224—s58rc. Melospiza fasciata heermanni (Baird).

Heermann’s Song Sparrow.

Abundant resident in the lowlands, and in the mesa region in the
vicinity of streams and ponds. Breeds mainly from April toJune. I
took a set of three slightly incubated eggs in Pasadena, March 4 (’96),
and on the same date, found a brood of half-fledged young. This is
of course exceptionally early. Full sets are of three to five eggs,
usually four.

2256—583. Melospiza lincolnit (Aud.).

Lincoln’s Sparrow.

Common winter visitant in the lower portion uf the county. Gen-
erally found in brush in the vicinity of water courses. ._H. S. Swarth
noted the first arrival at Los Angeles, Sept. 18 (’97), and the last in
the spring was seen by me at Pasadena, May 3 ('96),

.

226—s58s5a. Passerella iliaca unalaschcensis (Gmel.).
Townsend’s Sparrow.

Abundant winter visitant in the brushy tracts of the mountains
and foot-hills, and occasionally down on the mesas. H. A. Gaylord
reports the earliest in the fall, Sept. 13 (95); and I took the last speci-
men in the spring, April 10 (97). I have a specimen taken on Mt.
Wilson, Oct. 31 (’97), which is intermediate in color and markings
between this subspecies and true P. daca.

227--5856. Passerella iliaca megarhyncha (Baird).
Thick-billed Sparrow.

Common winter visitant on the brushy mountain sides. I have
noted it from Oct. 10 (’96), till April 17 (97).

40 Pasideria Academy of Sciences. Publication LT.

228—s85c. Passerella iliaca schistacea (Baird).
Slate-colored Sparrow.

A female was taken near Los Angeles, Dec. 14, 96 H.S., by
Swarth. This is our only positively identified specimen.
229—s8sd. Passerella iliaca stephensi Anthony.

Stephens’s Sparrow.

Common in summer on the higher mountains. In July, ’97, I
found it nuinerous in the vicinity of Mt. Waterman, above 7000 feet.
Its haunts were the growth of brakes and willows which lined the
water courses in the cafions. I secured full-grown young by July to.
Probably found in winter at lower elevations, though I have not as yet
observed specimens at that season.

230—s588a. Pipilo maculatus megalonyx (Baird. )

Spurred Towhee.

Abundant resident of brushy regions throughout most of the
County. Breeds in the mountains up to the limit of the undergrowth,
but in winter few are seen above the foot-hills. Nests mostly in May
and June. Extremes: Set four, considerably incubated, taken by A.
I. McCormick near Los Angeles, April 15 ('95); set three fresh, taken
by me on Barley Flats (5000 feet), July 10 (’95). Full sets are of two
to five eggs, usually four.

231—590. Oreospiza chlorura (Aud.).

Green-tailed Towhee.

Common summer resident of the higher mountains. I found it
rather numerous in the vicinity of Mt. Waterman in July (’97), and
secured nearly fledged juveniles on July 10. Occurs occasionally dur-
ing the migrations along the base of the mountains. H. A. Gaylord
noted specimens near Pasadena, April 4 (’96), and April 29 (’97).

232—sore. Pipilo fuscus senicula Anthony.

Anthony’s Towhee.

Abundant resident of the mesa and foot-hill regions; less common
in portions of the lowlands and up to 4000 feet on the brushy moun-
tain sides. Breeds mostly in April and May. I found a brood of
nearly fledged young in Pasadena, March 20 (’96), and I have noted
fresh eggs late in July. Full sets are of two to five eggs, generally
three or four. W.H. Wakely has a perfect albino of this species
taken near Pasadena, Feb. 13, ’86.

233—596. Zamelodia melanocephala (Swains.).

Black-headed Grosbeak.

Common summer resident in the willow regions of the lowlands,
and locally up to.7000 feet in the mountains. Arrives early in April.
My earliest record is a male, March 30 (96); and last in the fall, Sept.
22 (’96). Nests mostly in the latter partof May. Extremes: Set
three, slightly incubated, taken by W. B. Judson near Los Angeles,
May 9, (’97) and set three fresh taken by G. F. Morcom in the Ca-

huenga Valley, June 22 (’94). Full sets are of two to four eggs, prin-
cipally three.

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 41

234—5 97a. Guiraca cerulea eurhyncha Coues.

Western Blue Grosbeak.

Tolerably common in summer; found mainly in the mesa regions,
and very local even there. Earliest seen near Pasadena, April 25
(’96). Extreme nesting dates: Set four, slightly incubated, taken by
M. L. Wicks, Jr., near Los Angeles, May 18 (’89); and set four,
slightly incubated, taken by H. Robertson near Los Angeles, June
24 (’93)-
235—s599. FPasserina amena (Say).

Lazuli Bunting.

Common summer resident of the foot-hills and mesas. Extreme
dates of arrival and departure according to my notes are respectively,
April 4 (’96), and Sept. 17 (’97). This species becomes very scarce
after July, andI have only two records for September, including the
one quoted above and an earlier. Broods mainly in the latter part of
May. Extremes: Set three fresh taken by E. D. Parker near Pasa-
dena, April 30 (’95); and a slightly incubated set taken by A. I. Mc-
Cormick near Los Angeles, June 23 (’95). Full sets are of two to
five, in only one instance of the latter number, usually of four eggs.

285}—605. Calamospiza melanocorys Stejn.
Lark Bunting.

Casual visitant. An adult male was taken by Ed. Simmons at
Newhall, May 3, '97, and two others were seen.

237—607. Piranga ludoviciana (Wils.).
Louisiana Tanager.

Common summer resident of the mountain canons and coniferous
forests from 1500 to 7000 feet altitude. Extreme dates of arrival and
departure are respectively, April 19 ('96) and Sept. 30 (95). During
the spring migrations, in the larter part of April and early May, tan-
agers occur numerously on the mesas and lowlands, feeding on fruit
and berries. Breeds ordinarily about the first week in June. Ex-
tremes: Set three, fresh, taken by R. Arnold, May 5 (’95); and set
three, slightly incubated, taken by Ed. Simmons, June 30 (’95); both
in the canons north of Pasadena. Sets are of three or four, and in one
case, noted by R. Arnold, of five eggs.
238—6rra. Progne subis hesperia Brewst.

Western Martin.

Common in summer mostly in the mountains where they nest in
holes in the tall dead firs. Frequently seen flying over the mesas in
spring and late summer, A few breed in the oak districts to the west
of San Fernando Valley. R. Arnold has found them nest-building
there by April 1. As yet no eggs of, this bird have been taken in the
County.
239—6r2. Petrochelidon luntfrons (Say).

Cliff Swallow.

Abundant in summer in the lower portion of the County. Earliest
arrival in the spring, noted at Pasadena by H. A. Gaylord, March 8
(’96); latest in the fall, seen by me at Long Beach, Sept. 7 ('95).

42 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication IT.

Nests mostly on buildings, from May to July. Sets are of four to six
eggs.
240—6r3. Chelidon erythrogastra (Bodd.).

Barn Swallow.

Occurs as a tolerably common migrant over the lower parts of the
County. My earliest record is March 27 (’96); and in the fall F. S.
Daggett has noted it as late as Sept. 30 ('96); both in the vicinity of
Pasadena. A few remain through the summer and nest on the bluffs
along the coast in the neighborhood of Santa Monica.
241—6rg. Tachycineta bicolor (Vieill.).

Tree Swallow,

Abundant in spring and summer in the willow regions of the low-
lands, especially in the vicinity of ponds and marshes. The majority
leave in the fall, but a few remain throughout the winter. By the
middle of March this swallow again appears in full force and is soon
nest-building. Breeds mostly from the last of April through May.
Earliest set, four fresh, taken by H. J. Leland near El Monte, April 15
(C97); latest set, five incubated about one-half, taken by E. D. Parker
at El Monte, June 9 ('95). Sets are of four to six eggs.

242—6r5. Tachycineta thalassina (Swains. ).

Violet-green Swallow.

Abundant summer resident of the mountainous districts, and
occurring during migration on the mesas and lowlands. Arrives in
large numbers along the foot-hills by the middle of March. My earliest
and latest dates are respectively, Feb. 16 (’95) and Oct. 20 ('94).
Breeds principally before the last of May. R. Arnoid took a set of
five fresh eggs on Mt. Wilson, June 19 (’93). Full sets are of four
or five eggs. usually the latter number.

243—676. Clivicola riparia (Linn.).

Bank Swallow.
Common in summer in suitable localities on the lowlands. Large
numbers nest in the sandy bluffs along the coast. Evan Davis states
it to breed ir June and July, laying from four to six eggs.

244—617. Stelgidopteryx serripennis (Aud.).

Rough-winged Swallow.

Common over the mesas during the spring migrations. In the
vicinity of Pasadena, this swallow is most numerous in April, though
I have taken it as early as March 12 (’97) near El Monte. A few
pair remain to breed along water courses with steep sandy banks. H.
A. Gaylord furnishes our only nesting data, that of a set of four fresh
eggs taken May 30, ’96, near Pasadena. The nest was ina hole in a
cement wall in the Arroyo Seco.
245—6r9. Ampelts cedrorum (Vieill. ).

Cedar Waxwing.

Irregular winter visitant. At times, usually in the spring months,
this species visits us in large numbers, feeding in flocks on the berries
of the pepper-trees. My earliest and latest records are, respectively,
Sept. 14 ('97) and May 17 (’95). H.J. Leland tells us that he saw a

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 43

pair near South Pasadena, June 16 (’97). However, we have as yet
no evidence that this bird nests within the County.
246—620. Phainopepla nitens (Swains.).

Phainopepla.

Common’ summer resident, almost exclusively of the dry mesa
regions. In the washes and arroyos in the vicinity of Pasadena it is
very numerous. Ed. Simmons has noted the earliest arrival, April 9
(’97); and H. S. Swarth noted one near Los Angeles as late as Oct.
19 (97). An adult male was observed by H. S. Swarth at Los An-
geles, Jan. 31 (’98), which must be considered as very unusual. Breeds
mostly in June. H. A. Gaylord reports the earliest and latest sets;
they are respectively, a set of two, slightly incubated, taken May 4
(94), and a set of two fresh eggs taken July 28 ('94.) In some
seasons most of the sets are of two eggs each, and in other years almost
all are of three. This bird is popularly known as Black Mocking-
bird, and Black-crested Flycatcher.

247—622a. Lantus ludovicianus excubitorides (Swains.).

White-rumped Shrike.
Occasional winter visitant, probably straggling from the Desert.
I have a specimen taken near Pasadena, Dec. 8, ’94.

248—6226. Lanius ludovicianus gambeli Ridgw.

California Shrike.

Abundant resident of the lowlands and mesas. The majority
nest in the latter part of March and early April. Extreme instances
are, a set of five fresh eggs taken by H. J. Leland, Feb. 14 (’97); and
a set of six fresh eggs noted by H. A. Gaylord, June 28 (’94); both
near Pasadena. Full sets are of four to seven eggs, most often six.
This bird is popularly known as the butcher-bird, and is generally dis-
liked; but as it is such a persistent destroyer of the ‘Jerusalem
Cricket’’ and other injurious insects, it is undoubtedly one of our most
beneficial birds from the agriculturalist’s standpoint and should be
protected.

249—627. Vireo gilvus (Vieill.).
Warbling Vireo.

Abundant migrant in most of the County, and a tolerably com-
mon summer resident in portions of the mountains. The spring
migrations occur mainly in the first three weeks of April, and the re-
turn movement, the last week of September. My earliest and latest
records are respectively, March 23 ('95) and Oct. 2 ('95). This bird
breeds less commonly than any other of our vireos. It occurs very
locally, mainly in the mountains, where I found it in the vicinity of
Mt. Waterman up to 8000 feet in July. H. A. Gaylord took a set of
three slightly incubated eggs in the Arroyo Seco near Pasadena, May
9 (’94); and I took a set of three fresh eggs on Pine Flats (6000 feet)
on July 2 (’97).
250-—629a. Vireo solitarius cassinti (Xantus).

Cassin’s Vireo.

Common in summer in the mountains, and during the migrations

on the mesas. My earliest and latest dates are, April 4 (’96) and Oct.

44 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication LI

2 (’95). Breeds numerously in the mountain cafions from the foot-
hills to 4000 feet elevation, nesting mostly in cottonwoods and white
oaks in May. Extreme nesting dates from my field notes: A set five,
incubation nealy complete, May 11 (’95); and a set of three, slightly
incubated, June 26 (’93); both taken in the Arroyo Seco Cafion north
of Pasadena.

261—632. Vireo huttoni Cass.

Hutton’s Vireo.

A common bird throughout the year; although it occurs from the
willow regions in the lowlands up to 6000 feet in the mountains, de-
cided preference seems to be shown for the oak regions of the mesas
and foothills. The breeding season is quite extensive, as shown by
the following extremes: A set of three fresh eggs, taken by me in the
foothills north of Pasadena, March 7 (’96); and a set of four fresh eggs,
taken by H. A. Gaylord near Pasadena, July 15 (’94). However, the
majority of sets are laid in Apriland May. Full sets are of three or
four.
252—633a. Vireo bellid pusillus (Coues).

Least Vireo.

Abundant in summer in the willow regions of the lowlands, and
along streams up to the foothills. Arrives by the first week in April
and leaves during the last week of August. My earliest and latest
dates are, respectively, March 26 (’96) and Sept. 8 (’97). Breeds
mainly during the latter part of May. Extremes: Sets of four fresh
eggs, both taken near Los Angeles by H. Robertson, earliest, April 28
(’97) and latest, June 15 (’97). Full sets are almost invariably of four
eggs.

258—636. Mniotilta varia (Linn.).
Black and White Warbler.

Only one record: An immature female was taken in the Arroyo
Seco near Pasadena by H. A. Gaylord, Oct. 2, ’95.

254—-645a. Helminthophila rubricapilla gutturalis Ridgw.
Calaveras Warbler.

Common spring and fall migrant. Noted in the spring mostly in
the foothill and mesa regions. Earliest specimen, taken by me, April
4 (96); latest, by H. A. Gaylord, May 1 (’96). In the fall this
warbler appears mainly in the lowlands. In the vicinity of Los An-
geles H. S. Swarth has noted it from Sept. 13 (’97) to Oct. 8 (’96).
255—646a. Helminthophila celata lutescens (Ridgw.).

Lutescent Warbler.

Tolerably common in summer in cafions and on brushy mountain
sides up to 6000 feet. Abundant spring migrant, appearing in greatest
numbers in April. Earliest specimen of this race, taken by me, March
6 (’97); last taken in the fall, Sept. 8 (’97). Breeds in April and May.
I took a female on April 4 (96) which contained a fully formed egg.
Juveniles were secured early in July (95) on Pine Flats (6000 feet).
256—6466. Helminthophila celata sordida Townsend.

Dusky Warbler.
This subspecies appears in the vicinity of Pasadena in the oak re-

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 45

gions and along the arroyos in large numbers during August, and even
by the middle of July. Remains in diminishing numbers through the
winter; the latest specimen noted in the spring was secured by me,
Feb. 29 (’96). This race is apparently quite distinct from the last, and
is probably a visitant to the mainland from ‘the neighboring islands of
San Clemente and Santa Catalina at a season when the latter are dry
and uninviting. The large size, especially of the bill and feet, and
darker colors of H. « sordida render it readily distinguishable from the
small yellow /utescens. The birds found breeding in this county are
evidently of the latter race. ,

257—647. Helminthophila peregrina (Wils.).
Tennessee Warbler.

Only one record: I shot an immature female in the Arroyo Seco
Cafion near Pasadena, Sept. 27, ’97.

258—652. Dendroica estiva (Gmel.).

Yellow Warbler.

Common summer resident in wooded localities, especially along
streams, from the willow regions to 5000 feet altitude in the mountains.
My earliest and latest dates are, April 2 (95) and Sept. 22 (’94). Dur-
ing the migrations in April and September, this warbler is particularly
numerous and well distributed over the mesas and lowlands. The
breeding season commences by the second week in May. Extreme
nesting dates: Set four, slightly incubated, taken by H. A. Gaylord
near Los Angeles, May 12 (’95); and set of three fresh eggs, taken by
me near Pasadena, June 26 (’93). Full sets are almost invariably of
four eggs. :

259—655. Dendroica coronata (Linn.).
Myrtle Warbler.

Tolerably common winter visitant, associating with Audubon’s
Warbler. Specimens have been taken during December, January and
February.

260—656. Dendroica auduboni (Towns. ).
Audubon’s Warbler.

Very abundant and generally distributed throughout the county
during the winter; in moderate numbers in the higher mountains
through the summer. It appears in the lowlands about the first week
in October, and remains until the first of April, while I have noted a
few along the foothills as late as May 1. In summer it is found in the
coniferous forests on the mountains above 5000 feet altitude. W. B.
Judson took a set of five fresh eggs on Mt. Wilson, May 29, ’97. I
observed full-grown juveniles in the same locality on June 22 (’95).
261—657. Dendroica maculosa (Gmel.).

Magnolia Warbler.
Only one record: H. S. Swarth took an immature female near
Los Angeles on Oct. 21, ’97.
262-665. Dendroica nigrescens (Towus.).
Black-throated Gray Warbler.
‘Common summer resident of the mountains from the foothills up

46 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication IT.

to 6000 feet, and in the migrations occurring in considerable numbers
over the mesas and lowlands. The earliest noted was a male taken by
me, March 23 (’95), and by the second week in April they are present
in full force. HH. A. Gaylord has the latest record, Oct. 23 (9 5). Dur-
ing the breeding season, the scrub oak regions of the mountain sides
are the preferred haunts of this warbler. Most of the sets have been
taken about the last week of May, but I found a nest with four small
young, in the mountains north of Pasadena, May 19 (’95), and R. Ar-
nold took a set of three considerably incubated eggs in the same vicin-
ity, June 26 (’96). Four eggs constitute the usual set.

263—668. Dendroica townsendi (Towns.).

Townsend’s Warbler.

Tolerably common migrant, though not regularly so. During the
last week of April, ’96, it was fairly numerous in the vicinity of Pas-
adena, but in the spring of 1897 none were observed. ‘The first noted
was on April 22, and the latest, May 13. In the fall I have taken one
specimen, Oct. 2 (’95). A few probably pass the winter with us if the
weather is not severe. I saw several on Mt. Wilson, Dec. 12 (’96),
and took a specimen in the same locality, Jan. 27 ('94).

264—669. Dendroica occidentalis (Towns. ).
Hermit Warbler.

In the spring migrations this warbler is in some years tolerably
common, though not detected at all in others. In the spring of ’96
it was numerous about Pasadena. I noted the earliest, April 22, and
the latest, May 17. H.S. Swarth reports a specimen near Los Ange-
les, Sept. 10 (97).

265--680. Geothlypis macgillivrayt (Aud.).

Macgillivray’s Warbler.

This is a common spring migrant along the base of the foot-hills,
and in the fall in much smaller numbers out on the lowlands. It
arrives by the second week in April, and I have taken it as early as
April 4 ('96); the last was observed by H. A. Gaylord, May 13 (’96).
In the fall, H. S. Swarth has noted it in the vicinity of Los Angeles
from Sept. 4 (’97) to Oct. 13 (’96).

266—68ra. Geothlypis trichas occidentalis Brewst.

Western Yellow-throat.

Common resident of marshy tracts throughout the lowlands, and
appears abundantly during the migrations along the foot-hills and on
the mesas. Breeds in Apriland May. Extremes: Set of four fresh
eggs taken by H. J. Leland near Pasadena, April 7 ('97); and a sim-
ilar set taken by H. A. Gaylord in the same locality, June 6 (’95).
Full sets are almost invariably of four eggs.

267—683a. Icteria virens longicauda (Lawtr.).

Long-tailed Chat.

Common summer resident in the willow regions of the lowlands,
and in small numbers during the migrations along the foot-hills. ‘The
earliest specimen noted in the vicinity of Pasadena, was a male, April
18 (’95), but they probably arrive on their breeding grounds some-

March, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 47

what earlier. F. S. Daggett took it as late in the fall as Sept. 29 (’96).
Breeds mostly during the latter part of May. Extremes: Set of four
fresh eggs taken near Pasadena by H. J. Leland, May 10 (’97), and a
similar set taken June ro (’96), by H. Robertson near Los Angeles.

268—685a. Sylvania pusilla pileolata (Pall.).

Pileolated Warbler.

Abundant migrant throughout the lower parts of the county, and
more or less common summer resident in the willow regions. Ap-
pears in numbers usually by the first week in April, though I took an
adult male near El Monte, Feb. 16 (’95); last in the fall, Oct. 27 (94).
Breeds most commonly about the middle of May; A. I. McCormick
took a set of five fresh eggs near Los Angeles, April 28 ('97), and G.
F. Morcom took a set of four slightly incubated eggs at Cerritos, April
24 (’97); H. Robertson took a set of four fresh eggs in the former lo-
cality May 31 (97).

269—697. Anthus pensilvanicus (Lath.).

American Pipit.

Abundant winter visitant in the lowlands; especially numerous
and more generally distributed during the seasons of heavy rain-fall.
My notes taken in the vicinity of South Pasadena and El Monte, give
the earliest and latest, respectively, Aug. 29 ('95), and April 3 (’95).

270—7or. Cinclus mexicanus Swains.

American Dipper.

Met with in small numbers along streams in the mountainous
parts of the Conitty. Resident throughout the year. H. Arnold took
a set of four sligutly incubated eggs in Eaton’s cafion north of Pasa-
dena, April 22, ’94, and the same collector found a nest with four
young in the San Gabriel cafion, May 27, ’94.

271—702. Ovoscoptes montanus (Towns.).

Sage Thrasher.

Rare straggler from the Desert. H.S. Swarth secured a pair in
San Fernando Valley, March 13, ’97.

272—703. Mimus polyg lottos (Linn.).
s Mockingbird.

Common and familiar resident of orchards and gardens through-
out the lower portion of the County, and of dry washes and arroyos in
the mesa regions. Breeds as a rule by the first of May. I took a set
of 4 considerably incubated eggs on April 16 (’95) which is my earliest
date, and as two or even three broods are reared in a season, nesting
continues sometimes into August. Full sets consist of four, rarely
five eggs.
278—7r0. Harporhynchus redivivus (Gamb.).

Californian Thrasher. .

Common resident of brushy localities from the lowlands up to
6000 feet in the mountains. Breeds mainly in March and April. H.
J. Leland took a set of 2 considerably incubated eggs near Pasadena
on January 27 ('97) which of course is exceptionally early, HH. A.

48 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication IT.

Gaylord took a set of 3 fresh eggs near Pasadena, June 26 (’94) which
is also exceptional in being so late. Full sets are of 2 to 4 eggs, us-
ually 3.
274-713. Heleodytes brunneicapillus. (Lafr.).

Cactus Wren.

Common resident locally on cactus covered washes in the mesa
regions. Breeds mostly in April, but I took a set of 5 fresh eggs near
Pasadena, March 18 (92) and a set of 4 fresh eggs in the same local-
ity June 28 ('92). Full sets are of 4 or 5 eggs, sometimes 6. M. L.
Wicks, Jr., took a set of 7 fresh eggs near San Gabriel, May 25. (89).

275—715. Salpinctes obsoletus (Say).
Rock Wren.

Common winter visitant along dry washes, and tolerably common
throughout the year in certain limited localities from the coast to the
highest mountains. I took nearly fledged young near the summit of
Mt. Waterman (8500 feet) on July 20 (’95).
276—717b. Catherpes mexicanus punctulatus Ridgw.

Dotted Canon Wren.

Tolerably common resident in the mountain cafons up to 6000
feet. Breeds in the rockiest and steepest cafions usually in the neigh-
borhood of a stream. I took a set of 5 eggs, incubation advanced, in
the Arroyo Seco Cafion north of Pasadena, May 5 ('94) and a set of 6
fresh eggs in the same locality, June 23 (’93). These probably indi-
cate the extent of the breeding season. Sets are of 5 to 7 eggs.
277—719a. Thryothorus bewickit spilurus (Vig.).

Vigors’s Wren.

Abundant resident of brushy mountain sides, the majority de-
scending in winter to the foot-hills and mesas. Full-fledged young
appear commonly by the middle of May, so that nesting probably be-

gins early in April. R. Arnold took a set of 4 fresh eggs near San
Fernando, June 7 (’96).

278—7a2ra. Troglodytes aédon parkmanii (Aud.).
Parkman’s Wren.

Resident throughout the year, but much less common in winter
than in summer. Occurs from the lowlands to the highest mountains.
Generally found in wooded localities, where it breeds in May. Ex-
treme nesting dates: Set of 8 fresh eggs taken by me near Pasadena,
April 20 (’95), and a set of 7 fresh eggs taken by H. A. Gaylord in the
West Fork. of the San Gabriel Cafion, June 18 (’93). Sets are of 5 to
9 eggs, usually of 7 or 8.

279—722a. Troglodytes hiemalts pacificus Baird.

Western Winter Wren.

So far, detected in small numbers during the winter only, ina very
limited locality in the mountains north of Pasadena. I have secured
specimens by Oct. 23 (’97), and and none later’ than Jan. 25 (’96).
‘The Arroyo Seco and Millard’s Cafions, and Mt. Wilson, are the only
localities where they have been discovered.

M arch, 1898. Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 49

280—725a. Cistothorus palustris paludicola Baird.

Tule Wren.

Common resident of swampy regions in the lowlands. In fall and
winter it appears in localities where not found at other seasons, and
haunts weed-patches and rank grass. Breeds in the tule swamps prin-
cipally in May. H. Leland found nests with young nearly two-thirds
grown at El Monte by April 25 (’97). W.B. Judson took a set of 5
fresh eggs near Santa Monica, May 30 (’95). ‘This last is our latest
nesting date, though eggs are probably laid much later.

281—726c. Certhia familiarts occidentalis Ridgw.

Californian Creeper.

Common resident of the coniferous foresis on the mountains. It
is observed from 3000 feet up to 8500 feet. Juveniles appear by the
middle of July. W. B. Judson found a nest on Mt. Wilson, containing
3 fresh eggs, on May 29 (’97).

282—727a. Sitta carolinensis aculeata (Cass.).

Slender-billed Nuthatch.

Common resident of the coniferous forests on the mountains; usu-
ally found above 4000 feet, but F. S. Daggett took a specimen in the
oaks south of Pasadena, Aug. 26, (’96). I took juveniles in the vicin-
ity of Mt. Waterman by July 15 (’97).

2838-—728. Sitta canadensis Linn.

Red-breasted Nuthatch.
Irregular visitant in the mountains above 4ooo feet. Occurs
mostly in winter, but I found it on Mt. Wilson as late as May 9 (’96),
and H. A. Gaylord noted it again on Barley Flats, by Sept. 11 (’95).

284—730. Sitta pyyme@a Vig.

Pygmy Nuthatch.
Common resident of the coniferous forests on the higher mount-
ains. It is abundant on Pine Flats, and I took full-grown juveniles
there as early as July 2 (’97).

285—733. Parus tnornatus Gamb.

Plain Titmouse.
Common resident in the coniferous regions from the lower country
up to 6000 feet on the mountain sides. Breeds mainly in April. I
took a set of nine fresh eggs near Pasadena, April 13 (’96), and a set
of six slightly incubated eggs in the same locality, May 12 (’94).
These probably indicate the extent of the breeding season.

286—738. Parus gambeli Ridgw.
Mountain Chickadee.

Common resident in the coniferous forests on the mountains. Oc-
casionally, in severe winters, a few descend to the oak regions out on
the mesas, but they generally remain above 4ooo feet. Full-grown
young appear by the first of July, so that nesting probably takes place
about the middle or last of May.

50 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication II.

287—742a. Chamea fasciata henshawi Ridgw.
Pallid Wren-Tit.

Abundant resident of brushy regions from the mesas up to 6000
feet on the mountain sides. Most numerous in the foot-bills, where
it breeds during the latter part of April and in May. Earliest set,
probably incomplete, of three fresh eggs taken by H. J. Leland near
Pasadena, April 10 (’97); latest set of four considerably incubated
eggs taken by me in the same locality, June 25 (’97). Sets are of
three to five eggs, usually 4.

288—743a. Psaltriparus minimus californicus Ridgw.

California Bush-Tit.

Abundant resident in wooded and brushy regions, especially in
the foot-hills. Breeds generally in April. Extreme dates: Incom-
plete set of four eggs taken by C. E. Groesbeck near Pasadena, March
7 (96), and a set of seven fresh eggs taken by H. A. Gaylord in the
same locality, July 18 (’94). Full sets are of five to eight eggs,
usually six or seven.

289—748a. Regulus satrapa olivaceus Baird.

Western Golden-crowned Kinglet.
Tolerably common mid-winter visitant on the higher mountains.
So far, noted only on Mt. Wilson where it occurs in flocks of five to
eight in the fir forests. I have observed it there as early as Oct. 30
(’97), and specimens were secured Oct. 31 (’96).

290--749. Regulus calendula (Linn.).

Ruby-crowned Kinglet.

Abundant winter visitant throughout the County, and present
through the summer in small numbers on the highest mountains.
Arrives in the lowlands early in October and leaves by the last of
March. Extreme dates from observations in the vicinity of Pasadena:
Sept. 24 (96), and April 15 (’96). On July 14 (’97), I took an adult
female on Mt. Waterman (8500 feet), which undoubtedly had a nest
in the vicinity, probably with young.
291—757a. Polioptila aerulea obscura Ridgw.

Western Gnatcatcher.

Common resident in wooded and brushy localities, especially in
the oak regions. Breeds mostly in May, but I found a nest near Pas-
adena containing young, May 4 (’95), and G. F. Morcom took a set
of four fresh eggs in the Cahuenga Valley as late as June 12 (’93).
Full sets are of four or five eggs.

292—753. Poltoptila californica Brewst.

Black-tailed Gnatcatcher.

Common resident in a few limited localities on brushy mesas and
washes, principally along the base of the foot-hills. Numerous in
San Fernando Valley and about Pomona and Claremont, but around
Pasadena, which is between these two localities and apparently offers
similar attractions, I have never seen but one specimen. Breeds mostly
about the middle of May. KE. D. Parker took a set of four fresh eggs

March, 1898. _—_ Birds of the Pacific Slope of Los Angeles County. 51

near Claremont, April 12 (’97) and G. F. Morcom took a set of three
slightly incubated eggs in San Fernando Valley, June 29 (’96). Full
sets are of three to five eggs, generally four.

2938—754. Myadestes townsendii (Aud.).

Townsend’s Soletaire.

Tolerably common winter visitant in the mountains, occasionally
appearing as low as the mesas. My earliest and latest records from
the vicinity of Mt. Wilson are, respectively, Oct. 30 (’97) and May
9 (’96).

294—758. Turdus ustulatus Nutt.

Russet-backed Thrush.

Common summer resident in the willow regions of the lowlands.
Appears during the spring migrations, last of April and first week in
May, on the mesas and in the mountain cafions. H. A. Gaylord noted
the earliest, April 12 (’96), and F. S. Daggett noted the last, Sept. 14
(’96). Breeds mostly about the last week in May. Extremes: Set of
4 fresh eggs taken by C. KE. Groesbeck near Pasadena, May 17 (’93),
and a set of 3 slightly incubated eggs taken by H. A. Gaylord in the
same locality, July rr ('94).

295—759. Turdus aonalaschke Gmel.

Dwarf Hermit Thrush.
Abundant winter visitant in most of the county, especially in the
foot-hills, where it feeds on the berries of the California Holly. My
earliest and latest records are, Oct. 10 (’96) and May g (’96).

296—759a. Turdus aonalaschke auduboni (Baird).

Audubon’s Hermit Thrush.
An adult male thrush taken by me near Pasadena, Jan. 23, ’97,
was identified as of this race by Robert Ridgway.

297—76za. Merula migratoria propingua Ridgw.

Western Robin.

More or less common winter visitant throughout most of the coun-
ty, remaining through the summer in small numbers on the higher
mountains. Frequently appears in the lowlands and on the mesas in
large flocks, especially in wet winters. In the early spring months
they come into town, feeding on the berries of the pepper trees, My
earliest and latest records in the neighborhood of Pasadena are, Oct. 5
('97) and April 17 (’97). M. L. Wicks, Jr., found a nest containing
young but a day or two old, near Mt. Waterman, July 4 (’95).

298—763. Hesperocichla nevia (Gmel.).

Varied Thrush.

Usually a common winter visitant, but occasionally, during the
winter of ’95~'96 for example, scarcely any are seen in the county.
First arrival, a male, noted by me Nov. 25 (’96); latest in the spring,
a female, April 10 ('97). Most common in the foot-hills, but noted
from the crests of the mountains nearly to sea level. Especially numer-
ous wherever the California Holly grows abundantly.

52 Pasadena Academy of Sciences. Publication IT.

299—767. Sialia mexicana occidentalis (Towns.).
Western Bluebird.

Common winter visitant in most of the lower parts of the county,
and abundant through the summer and most of the winter in the
higher mountains. A few remain through the summer and breed in
the vicinity of Pasadena. H. A. Gaylord reports a set of 4 slightly
incubated eggs found near Pasadena, May 24, ’92. Ed. Simmons
took a set of six considerably incubated eggs near Newhall, May 4
(97). H. J. Leland took a set of four fresh eggs on Pine Flats (6000
feet), June 6 (’96).

800—768. Sitalia arctica Swains.
Mountain Bluebird.

More or less common winter visitant in the lower parts of the
county. Generally seen in large scattering flocks in vineyards and
young orchards. I saw a small flock on Mt. Wilson, Oct. 31 (’97).
H. A. Gaylord noted them near Pasadena as late as March 14 (’95).